Rayan Cherki has witnessed Baron de Or under Pep Guardiola and admits he wants to “kill” rival Manchester United
Rayan Cherki turned to winning Ballon D’Or after completing Move Manchester City.
The 21-year-old joined the Premier League champions in a deal worth £30.6 million ahead of the Club World Cup campaign.
Emerging as one of the brightest young prospects in European football, Cerki will arrive at City fresh from his senior debut for the French national team earlier this month.
His ambitions are clear – to be the best in the world – and he believes Manchester City is the perfect environment to make that dream a reality.
“When he saw Rodri, he won the Barondoor here,” Cherki said while speaking at City’s Club World Cup Training Base in Florida.
“It’s obviously possible in Manchester City and I’m here for this. I want to win. Manchester City wants to win it all. That’s a good thing for me.”
Cherki will be featured in the city’s upcoming fixtures for Wydad AC, Moroccan side of Philadelphia. Even before he stepped into the pitch of his city shirt, he’s already attracting the attention of fans. Especially about comments targeting local rival Manchester United.
Rayan Cherki can’t wait for the Manchester Derby pic.twitter.com/ol897hfgbw
– TNT Sports Soccer (@footballontnt) June 15th, 2025
Cherki previously faced United in the Europa League. In Old Trafford’s second leg, Lyon was reduced to 10, but still ended up leading 4-2 before falling to an additional time of 5-4.
Between the tie, Cherki scored a goal, temporarily placing his side 3-2, appearing to gesture towards United supporters.
Looking back at the night, he didn’t hold back. “I’m here to win every game.
“I don’t like Manchester United when they win a match against Lyon because I’m Lyon. Now I’m waiting to kill them.”
The addition of Cherki offers Guardiola another attack option, particularly in light of Kevin de Bruyne’s recent departure.
There is speculation about how well the French youth will adapt to Guardiola’s tactical expectations, especially his responsibility from the ball.
However, he appears to have already been connected to the mayor, and he gives him a sense of freedom to own it.
“Pep told me: ‘When you have the ball, you’re free’ that’s very good for me.
“When I spoke to Pep, he wanted me. He was very, very clear. The system, the club, the city is very good. I spoke on PEP about my position on the pitch.