O’Reilly credits Cherki ‘magic’ for crucial Man City victory over Arsenal

Manchester City starlet Nico O’Reilly has hailed the ‘magic’ of Rayan Cherki after the French playmaker inspired the Citizens to a vital 2-1 victory over Arsenal, a result that has blown the Premier League title race wide open.

Speaking to club media following the clash on Sunday, April 19, 2026, O’Reilly admitted that Cherki’s presence in the starting eleven has transformed the team’s dynamic.

The victory moved Pep Guardiola’s side within three points of the league leaders with a game still in hand, keeping their hopes of a seventh title alive.

“It makes life easier for all of us when he can go out and do that magic,” O’Reilly said of his teammate. “We all know how good of a player he is and when he can go and show it in these big games. He’s massive for all of us.”

The breakthrough came when Cherki, who joined City from Lyon for £34 million in the summer of 2025, maneuvered through the Arsenal defense to score a stunning solo opener.

While Arsenal managed to level the scoring, City’s tactical adjustment at halftime—which focused on feeding Cherki as the “free man” on the right flank—eventually paid dividends.

The pressure culminated in the 65th minute when O’Reilly provided a precise pull-back for Erling Haaland to smash home the winning goal.

Cherki’s debut season in Manchester has been prolific, with the midfielder tallying 10 goals and 12 assists across all competitions.

His ability to perform on the grandest stages has quickly justified Guardiola’s description of the 22-year-old as an “extraordinary” talent.

O’Reilly, who has enjoyed a breakout campaign alongside the Frenchman, emphasized that Cherki’s technical brilliance provides a psychological boost to the squad.

By securing all three points against a direct title rival, City have regained momentum heading into the final weeks of the season.