Rayan Cherki assists two goals as Manchester City beat Bournemouth 2-1 in EPL opener

France international of Algerian descent Rayan Cherki played a decisive role as Manchester City began their 2026-27 Premier League campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Bournemouth.

Cherki supplied two assists as City recovered from falling behind at the Etihad Stadium, with their winning goal arriving in stoppage time to complete a dramatic opening-day victory.

The result gives Pep Guardiola’s side three points from their first league match of the new season.

Bournemouth strike first

Bournemouth took the lead in the 26th minute when Evanilson found Marcus Tavernier inside the penalty area.

Tavernier made no mistake from close range, calmly finishing to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage.

City appealed for a penalty two minutes later after Antoine Semenyo went down under a challenge in the Bournemouth box, but referee Jarred Gillett immediately waved away the protests.

Bournemouth came close to extending their lead before half-time, with Gianluigi Donnarumma producing an excellent save in the 41st minute to deny Justin Kluivert’s low effort.

Cherki inspires City’s comeback

Manchester City increased the pressure after the interval and came close to equalising through Erling Haaland in the 75th minute.

The Norway striker found space inside the six-yard box and struck first time, but Bournemouth’s goalkeeper produced an outstanding save to keep his side in front.

City eventually found their breakthrough in the 84th minute, with Cherki delivering from a corner for Marc Guehi to head the ball into the net and level the contest.

The French forward was again involved in the decisive moment as City pushed for a winner.

Gvardiol completes dramatic turnaround

Manchester City’s pressure finally paid off in the second minute of stoppage time when Josko Gvardiol found the net to put the hosts ahead.

The goal initially went to a VAR review, but referee Gillett confirmed the decision, sending Gvardiol and his team-mates into wild celebrations.

City held on to complete the comeback and begin their Premier League campaign with victory.

For Cherki, the two assists provide an impressive start to the season and underline his growing influence in the Manchester City attack.