Gael Clichy: Rayan Cherki can become the next Kevin De Bruyne at Man City
Former Manchester City defender Gael Clichy believes Pep Guardiola's tactical demands will help Rayan Cherki reach the heights of Kevin De Bruyne.
Rayan Cherki, long hailed as one of European football's most exciting talents, has significantly improved his tactical discipline since moving to the Premier League. Former Manchester City full-back Gael Clichy, who coached the 22-year-old with the French U-23 team, notes that the player had to adapt to the rigorous demands of elite football after years of being the standout star in youth categories.
According to Clichy, the transition to City required a mental reset for Cherki to master all phases of play, not just attacking.
Working with Pep can either make you or break you. It is a simple choice, really - because if you listen and go with what he wants, then, with the quality Rayan has, you have a good chance of becoming great. If, on the other hand, you don't understand what Pep wants, and you don't really want to go his way, you can break that relationship. Gael Clichy
Clichy believes that if Cherki continues to refine his work rate out of possession, his creative ceiling is limitless. Once a coach trusts a player defensively, they are more willing to grant the creative freedom needed to dominate matches. This vision is supported by his debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium, where he contributed 10 goals and 15 assists.
Cherki's quality is also recognized within the French national team. Warren Zaire-Emery recently described the playmaker's talent as "genius," admitting that teammates are often left in awe during training. This internal recognition suggests Cherki is ready for a prominent role with Les Bleus as they approach upcoming major tournaments.