Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on summer signing Rayan Cherki, calling the 22-year-old “one of the most talented players” he has ever coached. The Frenchman joined Manchester City from Lyon in July for a reported £30 million but has endured a stop-start beginning to his Premier League career.
Cherki’s early momentum was halted by a thigh injury that sidelined him for seven matches. Since returning to fitness, he has featured just three times in the league but continues to earn his manager’s admiration for both his skill and confidence on the ball.
Speaking ahead of City’s Champions League trip to Villarreal, Guardiola said he remains convinced the young playmaker will become a major figure in his side once fully settled.
“Rayan is one of the most talented players I have ever seen in my career,” Guardiola told reporters. “His talent — he is top. The question is how he settles and how he reads actions.”
Cherki’s City start and Guardiola’s challenge
Cherki announced himself early with a goal in City’s 4-0 opening-day win over Wolves and had already netted during pre-season at the Club World Cup in the 6-0 victory against Al-Ain. His technical flair and creativity in tight spaces have drawn comparisons with Riyad Mahrez, though Guardiola insists the Frenchman must still adjust to the rhythm and tactical discipline required at City.
“I have the feeling most of the time when the ball comes to him, the situation is better. But not all the time you have to do exceptional things — just play football. He is like a street player. He wants the ball when he doesn’t have it.” — Pep Guardiola
The City boss added that the midfielder’s natural fearlessness sets him apart from most young players. “He doesn’t feel pressure. He’s been here a short time, but these types of players are intelligent — they see everything,” Guardiola said.
Rayan Cherki – Season Snapshot
| Stat (2025/26) | Rayan Cherki |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 3 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Chances Created | 6 |
source: Sofascore match data – 20 October 2025
The numbers show flashes of what Cherki can offer once fully integrated. His ability to unlock defences and combine with Erling Haaland has already caught Guardiola’s eye, particularly during cameo appearances against Everton and Wolves.
Our View: Patience could pay off for Guardiola and Cherki
In our view, Guardiola’s praise is more than just encouragement — it’s a statement of belief. Cherki’s raw flair and vision fit perfectly within City’s attacking framework, but time and rhythm will be essential. The Frenchman’s background as a street footballer gives him unpredictability, though Guardiola’s system demands precision and timing.
If the balance clicks, Cherki could become one of the next big stars at the Etihad. His creative instincts could offer City the kind of magic they lost when Mahrez departed.
Analyst Verdict
I think Guardiola sees in Cherki a player who can reshape City’s future midfield creativity. Few managers are better at moulding young attacking talent, and Cherki’s confidence fits that blueprint. His main challenge will be consistency and understanding the team’s positional play.
As FootballPlace analyst Liam Rowe says: “Guardiola’s words carry weight — if he’s calling someone one of the most talented he’s ever seen, it’s because he truly believes they can reach world-class levels.”
Key Insights
- Pep Guardiola calls Rayan Cherki “one of the most talented players” he’s ever seen
- French midfielder joined City from Lyon for around £30m in July 2025
- Injury limited him to just three Premier League appearances so far
- Guardiola urges patience as the 22-year-old adapts to City’s system
- Cherki already has one Premier League goal and one assist this season
What’s Next
Cherki is expected to be in the squad as Manchester City travel to face Villarreal in the Champions League on 23 October. Guardiola is likely to ease him back gradually, protecting his fitness while giving him more opportunities in Europe and domestic cup fixtures.
If he continues to impress in training, Cherki could soon become a regular feature in City’s midfield rotation — and another gem polished under Guardiola’s guidance.
👉 Can Rayan Cherki live up to Pep Guardiola’s lofty praise and become City’s next creative star?
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