Rayan Cherki shares emotional tribute to Olympique Lyonnais after club’s Ligue 1 lifeline

Rayan Cherki has shown his enduring connection to Olympique Lyonnais following the club’s confirmation it will remain in Ligue 1 next season.

Shortly after France’s financial watchdog, the DNCG, gave the green light for OL to stay in the top flight, Cherki took to social media to celebrate the news.

The 20-year-old forward posted a photo to his Instagram story featuring himself alongside Alexandre Lacazette, both proudly wearing the Lyon shirt — a quiet yet powerful gesture of solidarity with his boyhood club.

Cherki, who recently completed a high-profile transfer to Manchester City for €36.5 million, played a key role off the pitch as well.

His departure provided OL with much-needed funds in the lead-up to their financial hearing, and helped ease the club’s delicate situation with the DNCG.

While he will now pursue a new chapter in the Premier League, Cherki remains emotionally tethered to the club where he made his name.

Once a Lyonnais, always a Lyonnais, has long been a sentiment echoed by fans — and Cherki’s latest gesture only reaffirmed that connection.

A product of Lyon’s renowned academy, Cherki rose through the ranks to become one of the most technically gifted and creative midfielders in Ligue 1.

His flair, dribbling ability, and eye for a pass quickly earned him admiration both at home and abroad.

Despite mixed consistency in form, he remained a fan favourite throughout his tenure at Groupama Stadium.

Now a City player, he joins a star-studded squad under Pep Guardiola, yet he continues to keep a close eye on developments back in France.

His timely transfer, viewed by many as a sacrifice in the club’s hour of need, has sparked playful talk among supporters about whether the youngster already deserves a statue at the stadium — a tongue-in-cheek suggestion reflecting the gratitude and affection OL fans feel for him.

For Lyon, the relief of avoiding relegation — financial or otherwise — marks a fresh start as they aim to rebuild both on and off the pitch.

And as the club navigates this new phase, Rayan Cherki will be watching, supporting from afar, a Lyonnais at heart wherever his career takes him.