Enzo Maresca praises Rayan Cherki’s impressive start at Manchester City

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has praised Rayan Cherki for his impressive start at the club after the French midfielder scored in their emphatic 5-1 victory over AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League.

Cherki netted City’s third goal in the 57th minute, restoring the hosts’ two-goal advantage after Stavros Pilios had reduced the deficit for the Greek visitors.

The 22-year-old produced a composed finish, cutting inside before firing a precise shot into the bottom corner to extend City’s lead at the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking after the match, Maresca expressed his satisfaction with Cherki’s contributions since arriving at the club, highlighting his ability to influence games through goals and assists.

“Rayan, since we started, has been doing well in terms of numbers, goals and assists. I’m very, very happy with his start since day one,” the City boss said.

Phil Foden scored a hat-trick, while Elliot Anderson also found the net as City bounced back from their previous European defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

The result underlined City’s attacking depth and provided further encouragement for Maresca as he continues integrating young academy prospects into the first team.