'I was really happy to start' - Ayyoub Bouaddi celebrates dream start in Man City's win

The Moroccan teenager had previously made three appearances from the bench before earning his opportunity from the start following an impressive performance in the midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

The victory also made Maresca the first manager in Premier League history to win all seven of his opening fixtures in charge of a club.

Bouaddi made a strong contribution in midfield, recording 92 touches, winning seven ground duels and completing seven line-breaking passes as City battled to secure all three points.

"It was really good. I'm really happy because we won the game," Bouaddi said after the match.

"Of course, everything is good. It was a really tough game against a really good team in Ipswich. They put us in trouble in the second half. We won the game and we are really happy with that."

The midfielder admitted he was excited to be named in the starting line-up but understood that earning regular minutes was part of his development.

"Of course I was really happy (to start). It's football, I really like to play the game. I want to play every game. But I know it's part of the process and I was really happy with the game today," he said.

Bouaddi also acknowledged the pressure City faced as Ipswich pushed for a way back into the contest.

"Of course, you have a bit of pressure. You don't want them to score again, but we managed it really well. And yes, we were really happy with it," he added.

The teenager praised the quality of his team-mates, explaining how playing alongside experienced players helped him on the pitch.

"It's easier to play [with players like these], even if sometimes you play a bad pass they can manage everything. They make it successful, so it is a huge honour to play with players like this," Bouaddi said.

Foden also found the net for the first time since December 2025, providing another positive moment for City. Bouaddi was pleased to see the England international back on the scoresheet.

"You can ask him the question, but I'm sure he's really happy and we're really happy he scored the goal," he said.

"He's a great player, important player for the team. Everyone is an important player and we all want to play well all of the time."

City will look to build on the victory when they host AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday in their next UEFA Champions League league-phase fixture.

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