Rayan Cherki has quickly become one of the most talked-about attacking players at Manchester City, but a former teammate has suggested that his unique style could cause problems within the team’s structure.
Speaking about the 22-year-old, Nicolas Tagliafico — who played alongside Cherki at Olympique Lyonnais — offered both admiration and caution.
The Argentine full-back highlighted the Frenchman’s rare technical gifts, while also pointing to traits that might not always align seamlessly with the tactical demands of Pep Guardiola.
Cherki’s journey to the Premier League has been marked by steady progression and flashes of brilliance.
After rising through Lyon’s academy, he established himself in the first team, making close to 200 appearances and contributing significantly with goals and assists.
His decision to leave France — despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain — has proven pivotal, as he has adapted impressively to English football.
Since arriving in Manchester for a reported £34 million fee, Cherki has played 50 matches and been directly involved in 25 goals.
His influence has grown as the season has progressed, with standout performances including a two-assist display against Chelsea and a memorable showing versus Arsenal.
His creative output has also placed him in notable company. By reaching 10 assists in his debut Premier League campaign, he became the first French player to achieve that milestone since Dimitri Payet did so for West Ham United.
A talent admired — but difficult to contain
Tagliafico’s assessment paints a picture of a player capable of extraordinary moments, yet not always bound by tactical discipline. Reflecting on Cherki’s qualities, he said:
“He has so much quality. I don’t know if there are players like him these days,” he said in an interview, with comments relayed by BolaVip.
“Wingers today are more dangerous in one-on-one situations, with speed, but he’s very skilful with both feet, he likes to dribble all over the place, but he’s disorganised.
According to him, Cherki is likely to lose the ball in the dangerous area and create problem for his teammates. This was witnessed against Southampton last weekend. The Frenchman was dispossessed which led to the only goal scored by the championship side.
“I don’t know how Guardiola is putting up with him, because he’s more structured. It’s all very nice when you’re going forward, you have to attack, and it’s good that he’s disorganised but you lose the ball and it creates chaos,” Tagliafico said.
“Despite everything, he’s very good, he’s strong too, he has a lot of talent. And he’s still just a kid, he’s 22.”
Those remarks underline the dual nature of Cherki’s game. On one hand, he is unpredictable, inventive and fearless in possession — traits that can unlock even the most organised defences.
On the other, that same unpredictability can lead to turnovers and moments of vulnerability, particularly in a team built on positional discipline.
Rising influence in a crucial phase
Cherki’s increasing importance to City has been evident in the latter part of the 2025/26 campaign.
Earlier in the season, he was often introduced from the bench, tasked with exploiting tired defenders and injecting creativity late in games. That role allowed him to showcase his strengths without bearing full tactical responsibility.
However, his performances have since demanded greater involvement. Injuries, rotation and his own form have combined to elevate him into a more central role within the squad.
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With that shift has come increased reliance on his ability to produce decisive moments.
Perhaps the clearest example came in the recent clash with Arsenal. In a move that encapsulated his style, Cherki navigated through midfield pressure, weaving past Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhães before calmly finishing past David Raya.
It was a goal that combined close control, balance and composure — hallmarks of his game.
Moments like that have placed City in a strong position during a critical stage of the season.
They also highlight why Guardiola has continued to trust a player whose style differs from the typical City mould.
