Manchester City’s new star Rayan Cherki is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about players at the Etihad, with Pep Guardiola offering glowing praise for the Frenchman’s mentality under pressure.
Speaking through Fabrizio Romano via their x handle report, Guardiola highlighted Cherki’s rare calmness in tense moments, stressing that he treats high-pressure situations “like a friendly game,” a trait the City boss described as one of the hardest qualities to find in football.
Romano reported;
Pep Guardiola on Cherki: “Rayan has an attribute that is difficult to find: in difficult moments, a lot, a lot of pressure, it’s like a friendly game for him, it doesn’t matter!”.
“That is so difficult to find. It’s the biggest attribute I would like to find in a player”.
That composure has already translated into decisive moments on the pitch. Softfootball mentioned that City supporters have voted Cherki’s brilliant solo effort against Newcastle as their standout goal of January, celebrating the way he glided through defenders with confidence and control.
The strike has further strengthened his reputation among fans as a player capable of producing magic when it matters most.
His impact was also felt in Manchester City’s recent Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, where he played a key role in breaking down a stubborn defensive setup. In a tight and physical contest, Cherki stepped up when the match needed a spark, helping City secure a hard-fought win over a well-organised Forest side. His influence was crucial in unlocking a game that had started to grow frustrating for Guardiola’s team.
With performances like these, Cherki is rapidly building a reputation as City’s “clutch” performer someone who thrives when the pressure is highest.
Between Guardiola’s public admiration, fan recognition of his Newcastle goal, and his growing influence in key matches, the Frenchman is quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting new forces in the Premier League.
