*Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:36, 10 November 2024 (UTC) ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23:05, 12 October 2023 (UTC)
Born in Lille, France, Bouanani started his career with local side US Ronchin before joining Lille in 2011.[1] Having progressed through the youth ranks, he was named by English newspaper The Guardian as one of the best players born in 2004 worldwide in October 2021.[2] During his time with Lille, he was seen as the best player to come through their academy since Eden Hazard.[3]
In April 2022, it was rumoured that Bouanani would sign for Nice when his contract with Lille expired.[4] In July of the same year, he made the switch to Nice.[5] On 31 January 2024, Bouanani signed for Lorient until the end of the season.[6]
International career
Bouanani has represented France at under-16, under-18 and under-19 level.[1]
He is Algerian by descent and, after scoring for the France under-18 team in a 3–2 win over Algeria, he caused controversy by stating "Je suis Algérien" (I am Algerian), despite deciding to represent France at youth level.
Since this remark, he has opted to choose the Algerian national team and was called up to the main team in March 2023[7]
He made his full debut for Algeria on 23 March 2023, and provided the assist for Riyad Mahrez’s winning goal in a 2–1 victory over Niger.[8]
