Rayan Cherki has set his sights on profitable the Ballon d’Or after finishing his transfer Manchester Metropolis.
The 21-year-old joined the Premier League champions in a deal price £30.6million forward of their Membership World Cup marketing campaign.
Having emerged as one of many brightest younger prospects in European soccer, Cherki arrives at Metropolis contemporary off his senior debut for the French nationwide staff in opposition to Spain earlier this month.
His ambition is evident – to turn into one of the best on the earth – and he believes Manchester Metropolis is the proper surroundings to make that dream a actuality.
“While you see Rodri, he gained the Ballon d’Or right here,” Cherki mentioned whereas talking at Metropolis’s Membership World Cup coaching base in Florida.
“It’s clear that with Manchester Metropolis it’s doable and I’m right here for this. I need to win and I feel Manchester Metropolis needs to win all of it. For me that’s higher.”
Cherki is predicted to characteristic in Metropolis’s upcoming fixture in opposition to Moroccan facet Wydad AC in Philadelphia. Even earlier than stepping onto the pitch in a Metropolis shirt, he’s already caught the eye of followers, significantly for his feedback aimed toward native rivals Manchester United.
Rayan Cherki cannot look forward to the Manchester derby 👀 pic.twitter.com/oL897HFGbW
— Soccer on TNT Sports activities (@footballontnt) June 15, 2025
Cherki beforehand confronted United within the Europa League. Within the second leg at Previous Trafford, Lyon have been lowered to 10 males however nonetheless led 4-2 earlier than finally falling 5-4 in further time.
Throughout the tie, Cherki scored the purpose that briefly put his facet 3-2 forward, and appeared to gesture towards the United supporters.
Reflecting on that night time, he didn’t maintain again: “I’m right here to win all of the video games.
“I don’t like when Manchester United gained the sport in opposition to Lyon as a result of I’m a Lyonnais. Now I’m ready for the sport [to] kill them.”
Cherki’s addition provides Guardiola one other attacking choice, particularly in mild of Kevin De Bruyne’s current departure.
There may be hypothesis about how nicely the French teen will adapt to Guardiola’s tactical expectations, significantly his obligations off the ball.
Nonetheless, he appears to have already linked with the Metropolis supervisor, who has given him a way of freedom in possession.
“Pep informed me: ‘when you’ve the ball, you might be free’ which is excellent for me as a result of it’s my first high quality to assist the staff,” Cherki added.
“Once I spoke with Pep he needed me. He was very, very clear. The system, the membership, the town is excellent. I spoke with Pep about my place on the pitch and we spoke about what I get pleasure from after I’m on the pitch.”
