After accomplishing their early goal of completing signings ahead of the Club World Cup, there is a refreshing look to the current Manchester City squad. Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani

Cherki also said of his ambitions with City: “It’s very important for me to play the big cups like the World Cup and the Champions League. “When I saw that City wanted me and that they play in the Champions League, it was very important.

Manchester City has kickstarted the post-Kevin De Bruyne era by signing maverick France playmaker Rayan Cherki from Lyon for 36 million euros in time to play in the Club World Cup.

It is two signings in two days for Manchester City and, according to Opta, they are two impressive ones at that. Rayan Cherki led all players aged 21 or under for both chances created (75) and expected assists (11.7) in Europe's big five leagues in 2024-25.

As Rayan Cherki arrives at Manchester City with Jack Grealish's career with the club seemingly at an end, Pep Guardiola has gained a reputation for stifling creative talents.

Manchester City and Liverpool transfer targets are going up against each other with their national teams. What's not to love?

Man City have set their sights on Cherki as a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who is close to joining Napoli after not being offered a new contract at the Etihad. Despite Phil Foden already being in the squad, Pep Guardiola has asked for another attacking midfielder to help his side move on from De Bruyne.

Transfer expert Romano has since revealed that Cherki is “in a rush” to join Pep Guardiola ’s side as he wants to represent the Premier League giants at the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins for City on June 18 with a group-stage fixture against Wydad AC.