Rayan Cherki
Man CityRW (AM)
Half-Space Orchestrator
Aug 17, 2003 (22)
Both
5'10"
157 lb
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Will start from bench
Cherki is slated to start from the bench for France at the 2026 World Cup, according to the Touchline.
Analysis: Cherki has been on a great run this season after joining Manchester City, bagging four goals and 12 assists in 33 appearances as he proved to be their clear playmaker. He has continued this success in a few friendlies with France as well, showing he can produce on the international stage. However, in such a stacked attack for the French squad, he will not be given a starting role and instead will be introduced from the bench. There are still going to be minutes later in matches available for the attacker and potentially a start in the third group stage match, although he seems to be set for limited minutes as of now. This is a major blow to his World Cup expectations, as he is one of the most elusive and fun players to watch in the world.
Ready to shine on biggest stage
Cherki has been named in France's World Cup squad and heads into his first senior World Cup as one of the most exciting young talents in European football.
Analysis: Cherki wraps up the campaign having firmly announced himself as one of the most gifted players of his generation with Manchester City, blending elite technical quality with a level of creativity and flair that clearly separates him from his peers. The prodigious attacker adds an unpredictable spark to France's attack, a potential game-breaker against well-drilled, low-block opponents, and manager Didier Deschamps will likely lean on him as a weapon to unlock tight defenses whenever the game calls for something different. He heads into the tournament with the sense that the World Cup stage could be the perfect launchpad to introduce himself to the world in full force and start shaping a legacy worthy of his rare talent, whether coming off the bench or operating as a No. 10. Cherki finished his first season with the Citizens with seven goals and 15 assists alongside 84 chances created in 47 appearances (27 starts) across all competitions, and he arrives at the World Cup carrying that fearless, free-flowing mentality with the intent to play his game and bring joy to those around him on the pitch.
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