Pep Guardiola has recruited a powerhouse. The title from AS speaks volumes. To illustrate this point, the Spanish daily chose to feature Rayan Cherki over Phil Foden, who had just scored twice and delivered a significant performance, or Erling Haaland, who netted his 27th goal in all competitions this season. Cherki appeared on the field only in the 79th minute but made a notable impact.
Manchester City was leading 3-1 when Cherki entered, as Anton had recently given Borussia Dortmund a glimmer of hope. The former Lyon player dazzled with a breakthrough run through the defense, finishing with a low shot into the net past the helpless Kobel. This was his first goal in the UEFA Champions League, and likely not his last.
Three goals and three assists this season
Cherki has already recorded three goals and three assists across all competitions in just 280 minutes of play, despite facing injury challenges early this season. Just minutes before his goal, he had caused problems for the defense after receiving a pass from Foden. Cherki was anticipated to be a strong competitor for Foden, or even his replacement. Last night, Pep Guardiola successfully paired them up towards the end of the match.
“We experienced ten bad minutes after conceding our goal, as they pressed and lined up five, six, or seven players forward. After switching to a five-man defense, we managed the game better and concluded with a beautiful goal,” Guardiola commented after their commanding 4-1 victory. Following a two-assist performance against Bournemouth last weekend, Rayan Cherki continues to prove his worth at Manchester City.
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