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Manchester City boss Guardiola, who has guided legends such as the Argentine maestro, Andrés Iniesta, and the midfield orchestrator, stated that the French attacker is one of the most talented footballers he has ever seen and believes the winger will adopt the team-first approach at the Premier League side.

Return from Injury

The Frenchman, who joined City from the French club for a fee of £30.5 million just before the intercontinental tournament this past summer, has featured in only seven appearances to date. After recovering from a muscle issue, he had a short appearance in the win versus Everton at the weekend, where he almost created a goal for Erling Haaland.

The player has travelled to face Villarreal and could make his Champions League bow for the club.

Coach’s View

While calling for patience, the boss found it hard to put into words Cherki’s abilities, admitting that the only concern might be how he adapts within the setup and learns to performing basic actions effectively.

“Rayan is one of the biggest talents I’ve come across throughout my coaching life,” Guardiola said, puffing out his cheeks. “Technically and individually he is excellent. The challenge is his integration and his perception of the game, what the match demands. He started during the Club World Cup, but then he had time off. We must proceed slowly, yet his ability is undeniable: I have the sense that frequently when the ball finds him, the attack becomes more dangerous.

“Not every time attempt spectacular moves; he ought to make basic plays. Still, he owns a special quality. Like the pass to Haaland late in the game, among many actions he can do.

“He is a player unfazed by tension in possession. He is like a pickup game star. He shows annoyance – ‘I want the ball’ – when he doesn’t get it, clearly. He’s been here for not long at the club; it will take a bit as you have to build chemistry.”

When asked whether the Frenchman will adapt into the team ethos, he replied: “Absolutely. Players like him have great feel, very smart. They notice all.”

Kudos for the Midfielder

The City manager likewise highlighted Nico González, who is likely to start in the engine room. The Spanish midfielder has travelled to his former club, where he is celebrated pre-kickoff at their stadium, but is unavailable because of a fitness issue.

The manager said: “I feel that Nico is improving consistently. We are very pleased with his attitude and he will keep getting better. He is refined, open-minded, a great character. His mum and dad have to be immensely pleased about him as a human and athlete he is. He must be himself, and when featuring with elite teammates, you always learn. You realize how your game can improve, however, González has to be himself, certainly.”

Team’s Strong Form

The manager additionally spoke glowingly on the club’s improving displays. “We net many goals, generating lots of chances, and we are giving up little. It’s only eight league games as well as two in European competition, yet I believe that each game improves upon the previous one and is worse than the next.

“We talk about frequently how we can improve and how we can understand situations more effectively. I hold strong belief in the squad and I’m aware these players are putting in the effort. We are in very good form.”