Rayan Cherki's Manchester City debut against Wydad AC in the Club World Cup offered a glimpse into both his potential and the challenges he faces in adapting to Pep Guardiola's demanding system. While the match ended in a 2-0 victory for City, Cherki's individual performance was a mixed bag, leaving fans and analysts alike to ponder his future role at the club.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, signed from Lyon for a reported £34 million, was handed a starting role, indicating Guardiola's initial faith in his abilities. Cherki's inclusion in the Club World Cup squad, alongside other summer signings, further emphasized the club's commitment to integrating him into the team. However, the game itself presented a stark contrast between Cherki's undeniable talent and the tactical discipline required to thrive in Guardiola's setup.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Cherki struggled to consistently impose himself on the match. He lost possession 10 times, more than any of his teammates, highlighting a need to improve his decision-making and ball retention under pressure. This is a crucial aspect of Guardiola's philosophy, which prioritizes minimizing turnovers and maintaining control of the game. However, Guardiola praised Cherki's "incredible skills close to the box and great vision," suggesting that the manager sees the potential for the youngster to contribute significantly in the attacking third.
Cherki's strengths lie in his technical mastery, dribbling ability, and footballing IQ. He excels in tight spaces, evading defenders with quick footwork and close control. His ambidexterity and vision allow him to create chances for himself and others, making him a constant threat in the final third. He has been compared to Lionel Messi because of his dribbling. During the 2024/2025 season, Cherki demonstrated his creative prowess in Ligue 1, ranking high in key passes and dribbles completed. He is a player who can unlock defenses with pinpoint passes and elevate the play of those around him.
However, Cherki's defensive contributions have been a concern, with statistics revealing a lower tackle rate compared to other Premier League creators. This is an area where he will need to improve significantly to meet Guardiola's demands, as the manager expects all his players to contribute defensively. Moreover, adapting to the physicality of the Premier League will be a key test for Cherki.
Looking ahead, Cherki's future at Manchester City hinges on his ability to learn and adapt. Guardiola has a track record of developing young talents, and Cherki possesses the raw materials to become a valuable asset to the team. Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott believes Guardiola can unlock Cherki's brilliance by giving him the freedom to express himself within a structured framework. Guardiola has shown a willingness to allow players such as Omar Marmoush and Phil Foden to showcase their individual brilliance.
The departure of Kevin De Bruyne has created a void in City's midfield, and Cherki could potentially fill that role as a creative force. However, he will need to demonstrate consistency and tactical discipline to earn Guardiola's trust. As the season progresses, Cherki will have opportunities to learn from his mistakes and refine his game. His debut, while not perfect, offered a tantalizing glimpse of his potential, and it will be fascinating to see how he develops under Guardiola's tutelage.
