Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Arsenal has shifted the momentum of the title race in their favour. And the main reason is Rayan Cherki‘s form.
It was an enthralling game, with both sides eager for the precious three points.
But in the end, it was Pep Guardiola’s side who held their nerve to claim the three vital points.
And it was the French magician, who was the star of the show, with a sublime goal in the 16th minute.
Four goals and 10 assists are excellent stats for a debut season in the Premier League, and the way he, along with Rodri and Bernardo Silva, suffocated the duo of Rice and Zubimendi in the midfield battle.
Cherki has been the perfect replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who left City for Napoli in July 2025.
If we compare the two magicians’ debut seasons, De Bruyne netted 16 goals and provided 15 assists in 41 appearances, while Cherki has 10 goals and 14 assists in 33 games thus far.
With the kind of form he’s in, you wouldn’t put it past him to surpass De Bruyne’s debut season stats, as he is a top-class talent.
The New MESSI?
In his post-match press conference, the City Boss praised Cherki for his outstanding performance and drew a bold comparison to the great Lionel Messi.
“Apart from Lionel Messi, Rayan Cherki is the most entertaining player I’ve coached. He reminds me of him”
Guardiola: Foot Africa
And you can see it, with the way he dribbles with the ball in tight spaces.
This is an absolute nightmare as a defender to face, as you think you have him covered, but because of his nifty footwork, he manages to find the extra space to do the damage.
This was exactly what Messi was famous for.
Interestingly, Cherki started his youth development in futsal training at the Olympique Lyonnais youth academy.
Futsal is the more technical, fast-paced version of football that tests players’ instincts.
Futsal forces you to make quick decisions on the ball, so you basically have to play with your instincts and react accordingly.
Cherki’s individual brilliance was the key to City unlocking Arsenal’s rigid defence, particularly for the opening goal.
With City now having momentum in the title race, should they get over the line, Cherki will no doubt be one of the signings of the season.
For more information on Rayan Cherki and Manchester City, visit World In Sport.
