Ibrahima Konate reacts as Rayan Cherki bids emotional farewell after Man City confirmation
Manchester City have been after Rayan Cherki for some time now, and the 21-year-old has sent an emotional goodbye message after some confirmed news, with Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate reacting.
Cherki had an impressive season in Ligue 1 for Lyon, scoring eight goals and picking up 11 assists in his 30 appearances.
City are in the middle of a summer rebuild after failing to defend their Premier League title, and the France international was one of the names at the top of their shortlist.
Guardiola’s side are competing in the revamped Club World Cup later this month, facing Wydad, Al Ain, and Juventus in the group stage of the competition.
Man City confirm Cherki move
In the final minute of the 10-day transfer window ahead of the Club World Cup, Man City confirmed that they had completed the signing of Cherki.
| Games | Goals | Assists |
| 30 | 8 | 11 |
The Manchester side were racing to get the deal done before Tuesday’s (10 June) 7pm deadline, and the midfielder is now eligible to play in the upcoming tournament.
After the transfer was announced, Cherki took to social media to send a long farewell message to the Lyon fans.
On Instagram, the Frenchman posted a photo of his younger self in a Lyon tracksuit, with a long goodbye in the caption, paying tribute to those who have helped him.
International teammate Konate liked the post to show his support.
Cherki to shine for City
Football Insider Verdict
Cherki is effectively coming in as a direct replacement for the departing Kevin de Bruyne, and the Belgian leaves big boots to fill.
De Bruyne has been City’s talisman for a long time now, and there is no doubt that Guardiola’s side will miss his influence.
However, in Cherki they have one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, and a player who has such a high level of potential.
There are question marks around his attitude, which may explain why there were no suitors for the midfielder last summer, and Guardiola will have to ensure that he is kept in line.
If he hits the ground running in the Premier League, there is no doubt that we could see a special player developing over the next couple of years.