Why Pep Guardiola and Man City insiders believe Rayan Cherki deserves the No.10 shirt

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Manchester City believe summer signing Rayan Cherki can replace Riyad Mahrez’s influence and is an ‘unpolished diamond’, TBR Football understand.

City signed Cherki for around £34m from Lyon at the start of the summer, and he has already opened his account for the Blues at the FIFA Club World Cup.

After Jack Grealish sealed his transfer exit to Everton on a season-long loan, City acted quickly to hand his iconic number ten shirt to Cherki.

That decision is partly because of Cherki’s impressive impact in training in his early weeks at City, particularly catching the eye of Pep Guardiola.

‘Generational’ talent Rayan Cherki handed no.10 shirt after impressing Pep Guardiola

TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has explained City’s thinking at giving their new signing such an iconic shirt number following a rapid rise to the Premier League.

He said: “Cherki is a generational player – arguably the most skilful in the Premier League right now. He is incredibly talented and has the potential to be a superstar, which is why he went to Man City.

“He went from being linked to clubs like West Ham and Fulham to attracting interest from United, City, and Arsenal, thanks to his commitment and improvement.

“Pep Guardiola has taken a particular interest in him, putting time into his development this summer.” Cherki scored at the Club World Cup and has impressed fans early on with his technique and skills.

‘Genuine excitement’ at Man City over Rayan Cherki arrival

TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey understands that figures at City are excited over Cherki’s potential, suggesting he could even be the natural replacement for Riyad Mahrez – who left in 2023.

He said: “Cherki is an unpolished diamond, embracing challenges that others have struggled with, and we are beginning to see his potential fully emerge.

“He could be the long-sought Riyad Mahrez-type replacement at City. Sources suggest there is genuine excitement about him, and with Phil Foden returning to top form, Cherki could form one of the Premier League’s best tandems, supported by Bernardo Silva.

“Man City are quietly confident, and Cherki could be the catalyst this season.”