Rayan Cherki demonstrated to the world why he is one of the Premier League’s most exciting new additions during his sparkling cameo in Manchester City’s 4-0 thumping of Wolves.
A mere eight minutes after coming off the bench, the former Lyon midfielder opened his account in English football with a brilliant goal — as the 22-year-old played a delightful one-two with Nico O’Reilly before slotting the ball into the bottom corner from outside the box.
Pep Guardiola described Cherki as an “extraordinary” player in the final third as the youngster’s showing was a glimpse into the potential superstar he could evolve into.
Rayan Cherki played with a swagger that only the best players do, fearlessly combining with his Manchester City teammates in tight areas and doing flicks and tricks.
Rayan Cherki reacts after scoring during Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City - Premier League
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Kylian Mbappe congratulates Rayan Cherki after he scores for Man City vs Wolves
Mbappe has admired Cherki for years, publicly raving about his talent when his countryman was just 16.
After France’s 5-4 defeat against Spain in the UEFA Nations League final as well, Mbappe claimed Cherki’s feet speak for themselves as the City technician scored a belter and provided an assist off the bench.
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As Cherki turned 22 on Sunday, Kylian Mbappe wished him a happy birthday via Instagram while also congratulating the highly-rated attacker for scoring his first goal in the Premier League for Manchester City.
“Happy Birthday, brother and congratulations on your first Premier League goal.”
Kylian Mbappe’s record alongside Rayan Cherki for France
There seems to be a camaraderie between the French duo, who both have a case for being the most talented player their country has produced in years.
However, so far, the two have played for Didier Deschamps’ side on only two occasions.
KYLIAN MBAPPE’S RECORD ALONGSIDE RAYAN CHERKI FOR FRANCE
APPEARANCES 2
WINS 1
DRAWS 0
LOSSES 1
JOINT-GOAL PARTICIPATION 1
Cherki and Mbappe lost in tandem after France’s defeat to Spain but the pair bounced back after their side beat Germany 2-0 in the third-place playoff in the Nations League.
With the Real Madrid superstar assisting the former’s stunner against Luis de la Fuente’s side, the pair will be determined to wreak havoc at the 2026 World Cup.