Manchester City have officially completed the signing of Rayan Cherki, the highly-rated French talent from Olympique Lyonnais, in a move that has generated a huge buzz across European football. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder, long hailed as one of France’s most technically gifted youngsters, has fulfilled his dream of playing under Pep Guardiola — a manager he’s admired since his teenage years.
According to sources close to the deal, Cherki didn’t hesitate for a second when the opportunity to join City came calling. The player reportedly turned down several other offers, including from top clubs in Spain and Italy, because of his desire to learn and develop under Guardiola’s tutelage.
Who is Rayan Cherki?
Born in Lyon in 2003 to Algerian and Italian heritage, Rayan Cherki has been touted as a generational talent since making his debut for Lyon at just 16 years old. A product of Lyon’s famed academy, Cherki has dazzled with his quick feet, flair, and creativity. He is versatile, capable of playing:
As a central attacking midfielder (No. 10),
On either wing (especially the right),
As a second striker.
Cherki has been compared to the likes of Hatem Ben Arfa, Eden Hazard, and even a young Riyad Mahrez, not just for his technical ability but for his unpredictability and daring on the ball.
Though still raw in terms of decision-making, his potential has never been in question. And now, under Guardiola’s watchful eye, many expect that Cherki could evolve into one of the brightest stars in Europe.
The Transfer: Key Details
From: Olympique Lyonnais (Ligue 1)
To: Manchester City (Premier League)
Fee: €25 million + bonuses (rising to €35 million)
Contract: Until 2029
Shirt Number: To be confirmed
Medical: Completed in Manchester, June 5th
Official Announcement: Expected within 48 hours
Cherki becomes the first official signing of Manchester City’s summer transfer window, and signals the club’s long-term planning for life beyond Kevin De Bruyne, who has been linked with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League or MLS in the coming years.
Why Cherki Chose Manchester City
In previous interviews, Cherki made no secret of his admiration for Pep Guardiola and the footballing philosophy he has instilled at Manchester City.
“I’ve watched Pep’s teams since I was a kid. The way they play, the intelligence, the creativity — that’s the football I love. If I could play for him one day, it would be a dream.”
According to L’Équipe, Cherki’s decision was driven by two major factors:
- Guardiola’s direct involvement — The City boss reportedly called Cherki personally to explain how he would be used in the team and emphasized his belief in the youngster’s unique skill set.
- Development Path — City offered a clear developmental plan, potentially including a loan to Girona in La Liga if needed for more regular playing time, but Cherki is expected to start the season in Manchester and participate in pre-season tours.
Guardiola’s Vision for Cherki
Pep Guardiola is believed to see Cherki as a versatile piece of his evolving tactical puzzle. With Mahrez gone and De Bruyne aging, the team is looking for new creative sparks. Cherki’s natural dribbling, vision, and instinct in tight spaces could add a new dimension to City’s attack.
Whether used:
As a right-sided winger with inverted runs,
As a free-roaming playmaker behind Erling Haaland,
Or even in the left half-space alongside Phil Foden,
Cherki could offer Guardiola the kind of flair and improvisation that few young players possess.
City insiders describe Cherki as “a technical genius still waiting for full polish.” With the right mentoring, that polish could turn into brilliance.
Reaction from Lyon
Lyon fans are understandably emotional. Cherki was seen as the next local star to carry the club’s legacy forward. However, his relationship with the club had grown tense in the last season due to limited playing time under Laurent Blanc and later under Pierre Sage.
In a farewell message, Cherki posted on Instagram:
“Lyon is where I grew up. I’m forever thankful. But I’ve always dreamed of challenging myself at the highest level, and now I’m ready. Manchester, I’m coming.”
Lyon president John Textor confirmed the move in a press conference, saying:
“We’re proud of what Rayan has become. Of course, we would have loved to keep him longer, but when a club like City calls, it’s hard to say no — especially for a young player with big ambitions.”
Fans and Pundits React
The reaction from City fans online has been overwhelmingly positive:
🗨️ “Cherki is pure sauce. Give Pep a year with him and he’ll be cooking.”
🗨️ “This is like Foden 2.0 with more flair. Huge potential.”
🗨️ “We needed that X-factor — he’s got it.”
Pundits, however, have offered more measured takes. BBC’s Jermaine Jenas said:
“He’s extremely talented, no question, but Pep will have to work on his consistency. If he listens and adapts, we might be looking at the next superstar.”
What’s Next for Cherki?
Cherki is expected to join Manchester City’s pre-season tour in the USA, where he will likely get his first taste of playing alongside Haaland, Foden, Rodri and others.
Given City’s congested fixture list and their involvement in multiple competitions, Cherki will almost certainly get chances in:
FA Cup and Carabao Cup
Premier League rotational games
Champions League group stages (depending on draw)
The club’s plan is reportedly to ease him in during the first six months and reassess his role in January 2026.
What This Means for City’s Midfield and Attack
The arrival of Cherki is part of a broader transition in City’s attacking structure. With:
Bernardo Silva possibly heading to PSG,
Kevin De Bruyne facing physical limitations,
Jack Grealish battling form and injuries,
City are investing in young, technical players with high ceilings. Cherki could join a new generation alongside Foden, Doku, Oscar Bobb, and Lewis as the club builds a core for the future.
Conclusion
Rayan Cherki to Manchester City is a statement transfer. Not because of the fee, but because of what it represents: a top-tier club investing in pure, raw talent and betting on Guardiola’s ability to mold it into world-class quality.
For Cherki, it’s the fulfillment of a childhood dream. For City, it’s a move of foresight, ensuring the club stays ahead in the arms race for football’s next great playmakers.
Now, the only question is: how long before the world starts calling Cherki “Guardiola’s latest masterpiece”?
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