- Cherki prefers creativity over control
- Critiques over-structured play
- Values moments of genius
Manchester City star Rayan Cherki’s thoughts on modern football suggest the attacker values creativity over perfection.
Despite his rise in stardom among the Man City fanbase, Cherki has also seen some criticism over his defensive abilities.
Critics claim that he is not doing enough when it comes to off-the-ball play, which is important in modern-day football.
Former French World Cup winner Christophe Duggary is on board with these commentators, as he dislikes the player’s lack of perfection when it comes to pressing.
Nevertheless, the 22-year-old has already made his opinions public on structure or creativity. While interviewing with L’Equipe, the winger had some intriguing thoughts on the topic.
Cherki prefers creativity over perfection
The French international made it clear last month that he is all about creativity. Structure has become the mainstay in the game after managers like Rinus Michels, Arrigo Sacchi and Pep Guardiola started taking over the game.
However, Cherki believes that such compactness promoted the loss of creativity in a sport that is known as ‘the beautiful game’.
“Robots are good, but magic is better. Today’s football? I’m not a fan of its aspects”, the attacking midfielder exclaimed to L’Equipe.
“Playing a perfect match with 99 per cent completed passes is good, but playing one with five moments of genius will always be better.”
Does Cherki fit well under Guardiola?
Despite the criticism, Cherki seems to fit reasonably well under Pep Guardiola. While the Catalan manager can be strict when it comes to off-the-play discipline, Thierry Henry did reveal in 2016 that he does offer freedom in the final third.
“He will give you an element of freedom to do what you need to do in the last third”, Henry said on Monday Night Football after Guardiola signed for City.
The manager’s recent comments regarding his attacking midfielder have also been pretty supportive, except for some minor flaws.
“He has the ability and quality in the final third. That’s why I sometimes say when they go to the goalkeeper for the ball, I say no, I want you there in the final third”, Guardiola said.
Understandably, the former Barcelona midfielder would prefer his creative players in the final third rather than losing the ball in the back.
Can Cherki survive long-term at Man City?
While Cherki might be doing well under Guardiola, it will not be long before the 55-year-old leaves the Etihad.
Rumours suggest a departure in the summer. However, Guardiola’s contract does not expire until the end of next season.
Nevertheless, the 22-year-old might face some problems if his playing style does not match up with his next manager’s tactics.
Enzo Maresca is the favourite to replace Guardiola, but the Italian is very stern when it comes to positional discipline. Vincent Kompany is also in the same boat. Consequently, Cherki might see friction if either of these two is placed in the Etihad dugout.
However, there are other options that allow more freedom when it comes to the final third. Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann and Andoni Iraola would be the best fit for creative players to thrive at the club.
