- Former teammate questions Cherki’s fit under Guardiola
- Claims Frenchman creates ‘chaos’
- Offered some compliments too
Pep Guardiola has been questioned over his use of Rayan Cherki at Manchester City, with concerns raised about the midfielder’s playing style.
Rayan Cherki is undoubtedly having a great debut season at the Etihad. The Frenchman has already assisted 10 times in the Premier League in 15 starts.
Cherki has also scored thrice and will be hoping to make contributions against Arsenal. While the player still isn’t an undoubted starter, his recent performances might push him into that category.
However, doubts over the player’s fit are still being raised. Pep Guardiola is known for structured play, but Cherki does not fully fit that system, critics argue.
Former teammate praises talent but questions Cherki’s fit
During his time at Lyon, Cherki played alongside World Cup winner Nicolas Tagliafico. The left-back has been pretty vocal about his former teammate’s talent.
The Argentine international claims that finding such players has become rare in today’s game. However, Tagliafico also worries whether there might be a fit problem under Guardiola.
“He has so much quality. I don’t know if there are players like him these days. Wingers today are more dangerous in one-on-one situations, with speed, but he’s very skilful with both feet, he likes to dribble all over the place, but he’s disorganised”, Tagliafico told SashaJRR, via Bolvaip.
Addressing the Guardiola issue, he added, “I don’t know how Guardiola is putting up with him, because he’s more structured. It’s all very nice when you’re going forward, you have to attack, and it’s good that he’s disorganised, but you lose the ball, and it creates chaos.”
“Despite everything, he’s very good, he’s strong too, he has a lot of talent. And he’s still just a kid, he’s 22.”
Cherki is still working under Guardiola
Despite doubts, Cherki seems to be doing fine under the Catalan manager. The player’s impact has been clear with assists coming in important games.
The Frenchman helped open the scoresheet against Chelsea. He also assisted the second goal, which ended up being Marc Guehi’s first goal in the Premier League for Man City.
Cherki can come off as unpredictable, as there have been multiple occasions of unnecessary displays during games. However, that is also one of the player’s biggest strengths in the final third.
Guardiola will shape his development
Guardiola’s future at the club is uncertain, with many sources suggesting that the manager doesn’t have a long time left at the Etihad.
However, the 55-year-old will leave his mark on Cherki by the time he leaves. The gaffer recently made some comments on Cherki’s off-the-ball discipline.
While not fatal, Guardiola was just asking a bit more from the player. Finding a balance between creativity and structure is a tightrope but the tension will end, moving the Frenchman closer to being a more complete player.
