The 18-year-old Morocco international came on at half-time, with City trailing 3-0, and helped change the character of the midfield. His performance has given Maresca further reason to consider how best to use the former Lille player as the season progresses.
Asked whether Bouaddi could receive more minutes, Maresca was unequivocal.
“Yes, 100%, I think I can use him more,” the Italian said.
The City manager also explained the thinking behind his initial selection against PSG, admitting that he had prioritised technical ability when choosing Rayan Cherki.
“For this kind of game, I chose technique rather than the physical and solid side with Rayan Cherki. But probably against this type of team, you really have to be strong and solid in midfield,” Maresca acknowledged.
Bouaddi's introduction offered City greater strength in the middle of the pitch as they attempted to recover from their difficult first half. The teenager also provided an assist for Erling Haaland in the second period, contributing to a fightback that ultimately fell short.
His individual numbers were impressive. Bouaddi completed 93 per cent of his passes, recovered possession eight times and won every duel he contested, according to the figures reported after the match.
The display followed encouraging signs in City's opening Champions League fixture against Porto, suggesting the midfielder is adapting quickly to the demands of his new surroundings.
Maresca also raised the possibility of building a midfield around Bouaddi, Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernández, offering a glimpse of how the team's options could develop.
“Of course, the Anderson-Bouaddi-Enzo midfield can be a solution in the future. He is fantastic. He makes the other players around him better,” Maresca said, praising Bouaddi's influence on those alongside him.
Manchester City signed Bouaddi from Lille in August, with the Moroccan arriving on a five-year contract after establishing himself in senior football at a remarkably young age.
His performance against PSG does not guarantee an immediate place in the starting line-up, but Maresca's comments suggest that the teenager has strengthened his case for greater involvement. The manager now has another option as he weighs the technical qualities and physical presence required in high-level European matches.