Arsenal legend Robert Pires has revealed his surprise at Manchester City’s ability to land Rayan Cherki for what he considers a cut-price fee. The 20-year-old French starlet swapped Lyon for the Etihad this summer in a deal worth €36.5m plus €6m in potential bonuses, with Lyon also retaining a 15% sell-on clause.
Arsenal legend surprised Manchester City have secured transfer so cheaply — captures the story, as Pires admitted to Foot Mercato that the deal stood out among French transfers to the Premier League. Pires, a two-time Premier League winner and an icon of Arsenal’s Invincibles side, explained that while Cherki’s talent is undeniable, the price tag felt unexpectedly low for such a technically gifted player.
“The good thing is that French players are always attractive to English clubs,” Pires said. “I think I have a slight preference for Rayan Cherki, because I like the player, because technically, he’s very, very strong. What surprised me is the price he was sold for by Lyon or paid by City.”
Cherki made an immediate impression, scoring one goal in his first two appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side before picking up an injury at the end of August. While currently sidelined, the French international is tipped to become one of the Premier League’s most exciting young attackers once fully fit. But will City’s bargain buy prove to be the standout signing of the 2025 summer window?
Arsenal legend surprised Manchester City have secured transfer so cheaply
Pires’ comments echo the sentiment of many who believe Lyon could have commanded a higher fee. French media had long linked Cherki with big-money moves to Paris Saint-Germain or abroad, but City’s decisive approach sealed the deal. For Guardiola, the transfer continues his trend of investing in versatile, creative attackers capable of thriving in multiple roles.
“What surprised me is the price he was sold for by Lyon or paid by City. But I think he has the game to adapt to Man City, and also to the Premier League.” — Robert Pires, Foot Mercato
Cherki’s early impact at Manchester City
Before his injury setback, Cherki quickly showcased the flair and confidence that made him one of Ligue 1’s most exciting prospects. Deployed as both a winger and attacking midfielder, he slotted seamlessly into Guardiola’s rotation, scoring once in just two matches.
City’s packed fixture list means his return could be crucial, especially as Pep continues to manage the workload of senior stars like Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden. If Cherki adapts fully to the Premier League’s physicality, he could become a cornerstone of City’s next generation.
Rayan Cherki 2025/26 stats so far
| Stat (2025/26) | Rayan Cherki |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 2 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 29 September 2025
Though his season has been disrupted by injury, Cherki’s creative spark was evident early. His dribbling and ability to unlock defences are likely to be central to Guardiola’s attacking blueprint once he returns.
Analyst verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes City’s move for Cherki could go down as one of the smartest deals of the summer. “In a market where creative attackers routinely cost €70m or more, City acquiring Cherki for under €40m plus bonuses is excellent business. His ceiling is incredibly high, and under Guardiola, he could become a world-class playmaker.”
He added: “Pires’ surprise is understandable — Lyon historically sell their top assets for premium prices. But in this case, City moved quickly and decisively to get their man.”
Key insights
- Arsenal legend Robert Pires surprised by low fee for Rayan Cherki’s move.
- Manchester City signed the French talent for €36.5m plus €6m in bonuses.
- Lyon will also receive 15% of profit from any future sale.
- Cherki scored once in his first two matches before suffering an injury.
- Guardiola views him as part of City’s long-term attacking project.
What’s next for Manchester City and Cherki?
City face Monaco in the Champions League on 2 October before resuming Premier League duties against Brentford on 6 October. While Cherki remains sidelined, his return is expected later this autumn, giving Guardiola another creative option as the season intensifies.
For Pires, who remains closely connected to French football, the move underscores the growing influence of Premier League clubs in attracting Ligue 1 talent. If Cherki lives up to his billing, City may have pulled off one of the bargains of the decade.
👉 Do you think Rayan Cherki will prove to be the bargain signing of the 2025 summer window?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 29 Sep 2025 10:50
Foden is in form and also Doku. I dont see him starting at the moment to be honest.
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