Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola had some kind words for France forward of Algerian descent Rayan Cherki on Wednesday evening after the team’s 2-0 win against Wydad Athletic Club in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The forward signed for the English Premier League club this month in a move from French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyon.
Although new to the team, Rayan Cherki started for Manchester City today in their opening match at the Club World Cup.
The forward showed his quality in the game against Wydad AC, helping the English side cruise to victory.
Speaking in his post-match interview, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola praised Rayan Cherki, stressing that it is difficult to replace the forward from his starting eleven.
“Rayan Cherki had some good moments. It’s difficult to replace him with the quality he has. He has incredible dribbling close to the box, very high-quality passes and vision. It’s the first match, we are happy to have him with us,” Guardiola said.
Cherki will be playing a key role for Manchester City at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup.
In the second round of the group stage games, the English side will face off with Al Ain.
