In June 2025, Rayan Cherki signed a five-year deal with Manchester City after leaving Lyon. The deal was worth €36.5 million up front, plus extras and a sell-on clause. In the 2025/26 season, the 22-year-old played in 26 Premier League games, scoring three goals and setting up ten more. He also played well in cup competitions. He has scored 9 goals and assisted 11 others in 42–43 games, which shows how quickly he has adapted to the Premier League’s high level of play.
Pep Guardiola has used Cherki in attacking midfield roles that are always changing. This gives him freedom in the final third but requires him to press hard. This setup makes the most of Cherki’s dribbling and creativity, as shown by big wins like the 3-0 win over Chelsea and the 2-0 win over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. Guardiola praises Cherki’s work ethic, pointing out that he is able to keep up with his teammates on defense even though he isn’t as fast as them. This quiets early critics.
Cherki’s ability to move around the field and make accurate passes has opened up defenses. He has 34 key passes and an 86% passing accuracy per 90 minutes. Some of his best moments include helping his team win against tough opponents and scoring his first goal for City in the FIFA Club World Cup. At 22, he has the potential to be a key player for City’s continued success.
