Zidane hails Cherki after Manchester City star shines for France

France manager Zinédine Zidane has praised Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki after the 23-year-old impressed during his latest international appearance.

Cherki was called up by Zidane for France’s September training camp and has quickly caught the attention of the former France number 10, who says he would have enjoyed playing alongside the attacking midfielder.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of France’s meeting with Belgium, Zidane highlighted Cherki’s technical qualities as well as his work without the ball.

Zidane admires Cherki’s qualities

Asked whether he would have liked to play with Cherki during his own career, Zidane responded positively while explaining what makes the Manchester City player stand out.

“Yes, well yes (I would have liked to play with him), he’s a proper footballer,” the manager smiled to the journalists.

Zidane, however, stressed that Cherki’s ability with the ball is not the only aspect of his game that has impressed him.

“But it’s not just that – everyone knows that. What interests me is what he’s capable of doing without the ball,” he continued. “He’s capable of receiving the ball between the lines; he makes incredible passes. Two or three times, when he plays vertically, it can be immediately effective.”

Cherki makes impression for France

Cherki started France’s match against Belgium at the Turka Kocaeli Stadyumu on Friday as Zidane’s side secured a 1-0 victory.

The Manchester City player produced a strong display before being replaced by Eduardo Camavinga in the 78th minute.

His performance further strengthened the positive impression he has made on Zidane since joining up with the France squad.