Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki defends football romantics
Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki believes there is still room for football romantics in the modern game after a dazzling debut season in the Premier League.
The 22-year-old has established himself as a vital component in Pep Guardiola’s system since arriving in England.
With 15 goal involvements, the French international ranks behind only Erling Haaland for attacking output at the Etihad Stadium this term.
Reviving the art of entertainment
Amid a tactical landscape increasingly dominated by rigid systems and set-piece routines, the former Lyon playmaker has stood out as a throwback.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher recently labelled him a “maverick” for his unpredictable style.
While Guardiola is notoriously demanding regarding tactical discipline, even the Catalan manager has been forced to admire his new star’s creative risks.
The talented forward feels a kinship with iconic entertainers of the past like Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi.
Playing with freedom and flair
Cherki insists that supporters still pay money to see players attempt the unexpected.
“Today, people who come to the stadium, more and more they want to see players who create a lot of things.”
“If today, I think about doing a backheel, or a Rabona, a sombrero flick or a shot from distance, that allows me to be what I want to be.”
The City attacker actively encourages his peers to embrace their creative instincts rather than fear failure.
“You shouldn’t refrain from it, try it. Because in football today, you’re not going to succeed at everything.”
Finding joy in all aspects
Despite his flair on the ball, the young creator acknowledges that entertainment is not restricted to attacking play.
He wants the sport to remain an emotional escape for fans rather than a mechanical exercise.
“I don’t want football to become a normal sport, or that it’s less watched.”
“I want people who are less passionate about football to say themselves that it’s a sport that brings a lot of emotions.”
Even the defensive side of the game holds an artistic value for him.
“A tackle is also part of the fun. It’s also a form of art, it’s also a way of loving football.”