Manchester City Completes £34m Signing of Rayan Cherki for Club World Cup

Manchester City is set to complete the £34 million signing of Lyon midfielder Rayan Cherki, a promising 21-year-old talent viewed as pivotal in Pep Guardiola's squad overhaul. Cherki, known for his technical skill and creativity, impressed during his recent senior France debut with a spectacular goal, enhancing his reputation as one of Europe's top young players. Despite criticisms of inconsistency and questions over why top clubs had not previously secured him, Cherki's statistics—such as 12 goals and 20 assists last season—and his ability to use both feet effectively underscore his potential. French football journalist Loic Tanzi and experts highlight Cherki's intelligence and adaptability, suggesting he will quickly adjust to Guardiola's style and grow into a top player. His signing coincides with Manchester City's need to rebuild after key departures, aiming to close the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League. Cherki's move is also notable for its timing, with the club racing to register him before the Club World Cup deadline.