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City manager Pep Guardiola, previously guided icons including Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and the midfield orchestrator, has declared that Rayan Cherki is one of the most gifted players he has ever observed and is sure the forward will buy into the collective mentality at the Premier League side.

Return from Injury

The Frenchman, who signed for City from Lyon for a fee of £30.5 million in time for the Club World Cup earlier this year, has featured in just seven outings so far. After recovering from a thigh problem, he had a short cameo in the 2-0 victory against the Toffees recently, in which he nearly set up a strike for the Norwegian.

He is heading for the Villarreal game potentially make his Champions League bow in a City shirt.

Coach’s View

While calling for understanding, Guardiola struggled to fully describe his talent, noting that the main question is how he adapts into the structure and gets used to doing fundamental plays well.

“Cherki is one of the biggest talents I’ve witnessed in my career,” stated the manager, puffing out his cheeks. “Technically and individually he is excellent. The key is how he settles and his understanding of the game, what every action needs. He featured during the Club World Cup, however there was a break. It’s about taking it step by step, but his talent is clear: I feel that often when possession finds him, things get better.

“It’s not necessary for him to attempt incredible actions; he ought to play simple football. But he has something unique. Such as the assist for Erling against Everton, along with numerous other things he executes.

“He’s the type immune to pressure on the ball. He reminds me of a pickup game star. He is grumpy – ‘pass it to me’ – when he’s overlooked, obviously. It’s only been a short time in the team; he needs some time because you must build chemistry.”

Inquired if the youngster would fit into the team ethos, he replied: “Yes, definitely. These kinds of players are so instinctive, incredibly bright. They perceive it all.”

Recognition for González

Guardiola likewise highlighted Nico González, who is likely to play in the engine room. Rodri has gone to Villarreal, and is likely celebrated pre-kickoff at the Estadio de la Cerámica, but is unavailable with a muscle problem.

Guardiola noted: “I have the impression that González is getting better steadily. We are very pleased with his attitude and he ought to improve year by year. He is refined, open-minded, a lovely guy. His parents have to be immensely happy with the person and footballer he has become. He needs to stay true, but when you play with elite teammates, you gain experience. You notice how your game can improve, but Nico has to be himself, for sure.”

Team’s Strong Form

He likewise expressed delight regarding the team’s improving displays. “We put away plenty of strikes, producing a wealth of opportunities, and we are not conceding much. There have been only eight league games and two in the Champions League, but I feel that every match improves upon the last and is worse than the next.

“We talk about frequently what we can do better and how to interpret play better. I have great belief in the squad and I realize they are working hard. We are showing excellent condition.”