Conte picks Bouaddi, Hassan, Oulai as World Cup standouts

Former Chelsea and Inter Milan manager Antonio Conte named Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, Egyptian winger Hassan and Ivorian midfielder Oulai as three standout performers from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bouaddi, who helped Morocco reach the quarter-finals before losing to France, had already attracted Arsenal interest after a standout season with Lille. Hassan helped Egypt reach the knockout stage, while Oulai played a key role for Ivory Coast’s run to the last-16. Conte also praised England’s Harry Kane for his play-making vision and Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez for his selfless teamwork.

This recognition highlights the growing impact of African players on the world stage and signals that top European clubs are scouting the continent for talent. For Nigerian fans, it underscores that players from neighboring African nations can break into elite leagues, reinforcing the scouting pathways that have brought Nigerians to Europe. Arsenal’s interest in Bouaddi also shows how Ligue 1 performers can become Premier League targets, a pathway relevant to aspiring Nigerian professionals.

Watch for Bouaddi’s potential Arsenal move in the upcoming transfer window; his Lille contract runs until 2027, so a fee would be required. Hassan’s current club is Al Ahly, while Oulai plays for AFC Abidjan—both clubs often feed European scouts. Conte’s praise of Kane and Martinez reminds us that leadership and tactical intelligence are as vital as raw skill. Will Arsenal secure Bouaddi’s signature, and could his success encourage more scouting missions across West Africa?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/15/world-cup-antonio-conte-names-three-outstanding-players/