France captain Kylian Mbappé has once again spoken glowingly about Rayan Cherki, describing the Manchester City attacker as a “special talent” ahead of France’s World Cup qualifying fixtures against Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
Rayan Cherki’s talents were undeniable and his resurgence at club level has earned him another call-up to the national side, and he is expected to play a role in Thursday’s home clash against Ukraine.
Asked about his international teammate, Mbappé could not hide his admiration for the 22-year-old City forward who has impressed since joining Pep Guardiola’s side.
“He’s a special talent,” Mbappé told reporters according to Teamtalk. “I think he has a gift, which he’s making the most of. It’s an innate, spectacular talent.
“He’s integrated very well into the group and into Manchester City, which isn’t easy. I hope he continues like this. He’s started well with us.
“Now he has the opportunity to return, and I hope he’s as good as he was at Manchester City.”
The World Cup-winning forward’s praise comes as no surprise to those who have followed Cherki’s recent rise.
Since moving to the Premier League in a £34 million deal from Lyon in June, the Frenchman has swiftly adapted to Guardiola’s demanding system.
Rayan Cherki’s talents which include his technical flair and creativity have already drawn comparisons to some of City’s most inventive attackers.
This is not the first time Mbappé has highlighted Cherki’s quality. After the playmaker scored and provided an assist on his France debut in June, Mbappé was full of praise for him.
“His qualities are obvious, there was never any doubt about that. He is someone who has brought us [France] a lot and will continue to do so. His feet speak for themselves,” he said.
Those words proved prophetic. Despite an early setback with a thigh injury that briefly interrupted his bright start, Cherki has returned stronger than ever, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s emerging stars.
Cherki’s impact at City and growing reputation
Since recovering from injury, Cherki has been pivotal in City’s attack, notching three goals and three assists in just nine appearances.
His ability to glide past defenders, combine intelligently with teammates, and pick the right pass has added a new dimension to City’s attacking rhythm.
Having witnessed Rayan Cherki’s talents and abilities, supporters at the Etihad have embraced the Frenchman.
Whether drifting inside from the right flank or playing centrally behind Erling Haaland, Cherki’s movement and vision have become vital components of Guardiola’s tactical setup.
His developing chemistry with Haaland in particular promises to be one of the Premier League’s most exciting partnerships this season.
During his time at Lyon, Cherki’s raw ability was often questioned due to concerns over his attitude and defensive work rate.
But under Guardiola’s mentorship, those doubts are fading fast. The City boss has challenged him to press aggressively and contribute to the team’s shape, while still allowing him the creative freedom that makes him so dangerous in the final third.
Cherki’s willingness to adapt has impressed both his manager and senior teammates.
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His performances suggest he has matured beyond the inconsistencies that once shadowed his early career in Ligue 1.
City’s investment, initially viewed as a gamble, now looks like one of the bargains of the summer.
The £34 million fee that secured his services is already appearing to be money well spent as the French attacker continues to influence matches with both goals and assists.
Also, Cherki’s versatility has been a major advantage. The young forward’s ability to interchange positions with Phil Foden allows City to remain unpredictable and fluid in attack.
With Arsenal setting the early pace in the Premier League, City are counting on players like Cherki to maintain pressure at the top of the table.
His inventiveness and willingness to take risks have given Guardiola fresh tactical options at a crucial point in the campaign.
