Pep Guardiola can’t ignore one stars performance vs Swansea ahead of Bournemouth clash
Pep Guardiola has been handed a major boost as Man City look to catch Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
Man City‘s 3-1 win over Swansea, saw one star stand out as the Citizens came from behind to cruise though to the quarter-finals of the competition.
Attention now reverts back to the Premier League, with Man City’s 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa coupled with Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace putting a six-point gap between the sides in the table.
Erling Haaland has been in extraordinary goal scoring form this season, but overreliance on the striker has become a concern for Guardiola.
Rayan Cherki shines in Swansea win
Cherki made his first start since Man City’s 2-0 defeat to Spurs in August, and the Frenchman stole the show with a majestic display.
The 22-year-old scored on his first Premier League appearance at Wolves, showing then the excellent technical ability at his disposal.
Against Swansea, Cherki was a class above everyone else, and had the most shots and most touches in the opposition box of any player.
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Touches | 119 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Shots | 5 |
Cherki must start vs Bournemouth
Cherki has only started two games for Man City since his summer arrival, and a run in the team could help Guardiola ease the burden on Haaland.
Only three other players have scored for Man City in the Premier League this season, and as seen against Aston Villa, Guardiola needs more of his stars to step up.
Cherki can bring a creative influence to create more chances for Haaland, and also get on the score sheet in what can only be seen as a boost for Guardiola.