Egyptian football icon Mohamed Aboutrika has questioned Enzo Maresca’s tactical decision to deploy young midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi in an advanced role following Manchester City’s disappointing 1-0 Premier League defeat to Brighton. The former Egypt international believes the manager is preventing the teenager from displaying his strongest qualities by using him outside his natural position.

According to a report by GOAL on Monday, November 2, 2026, Aboutrika argued that Bouaddi is more effective as a defensive midfielder rather than operating as a number eight or number 10. His criticism followed Saturday’s encounter at the Etihad Stadium, where the 19-year-old struggled to make a significant impact before being substituted in the 55th minute.

Bouaddi was making his fifth start of the season across all competitions, but his display raised questions about his responsibilities within Maresca’s midfield structure. Aboutrika believes the youngster should be positioned closer to the defence, where he can use his ability to recover possession, distribute the ball and initiate attacking moves.

Speaking during his role as an analyst for beIN Sports MENA, the former Al Ahly forward strongly disagreed with Maresca’s approach. He compared the decision to using Lionel Messi as a goalkeeper, insisting that Bouaddi’s natural position is number six and questioning why the manager had chosen to change his role.

Aboutrika, who helped Egypt win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2006 and 2008, believes the midfielder’s greatest strengths become more noticeable when he operates from a deeper position. In his assessment, Bouaddi has the technical ability to win challenges, maintain possession and move the ball forward from the base of midfield.

The Egyptian legend suggested that assigning him more attacking responsibilities could limit his effectiveness and prevent him from contributing fully to the team. His comments have therefore added to the discussion surrounding the youngster’s development and Maresca’s tactical choices.

Bouaddi joined Manchester City last summer after attracting considerable attention through his performances for Morocco. His transfer initially made him the most expensive African footballer in history, although that distinction was later surpassed by Ivorian forward Yan Diomande following his reported move to Real Madrid.

Despite arriving with considerable expectations, Bouaddi is still working towards establishing himself as a consistent performer under Maresca. He has recorded nine appearances in all competitions this season, providing two assists, but has yet to become a regular influential presence in the side.

Manchester City must now turn their attention to their Champions League assignment against RB Leipzig in Germany as they seek a response to the Brighton setback.

Whether Maresca retains Bouaddi in his starting formation or restores him to a deeper midfield position is likely to attract attention before the European fixture. The manager’s decision could also influence how the teenager develops and contributes during the remainder of the campaign.