Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Mon 30 March 2026 9:45, UK

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Rayan Cherki has been hailed away from Manchester City after a fine performance for France as they beat Colombia on Sunday.

Didier Deschamps’ side beat the South Americans 3-1 in the United States, with Desire Doue’s brace and Marcus Thuram’s header enough to make sure Jaminton Campaz’s goal was a mere consolation.

The Man City starlet made his senior debut for France just 10 months ago in the Nations League against Spain, and he is expected to go to the World Cup this summer.

Especially after a superb first season in England that could still see Cherki lift more trophies to follow this month’s Carabao Cup.

Man City’s schedule after the international break is hectic, and they remain in contention for both the Premier League and the FA Cup.

French media rave over Rayan Cherki

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider this month that Cherki has a key role to play at Man City, and there should be no concerns about Pep Guardiola’s usage of him.

The Spaniard has often opted to utilise him from the bench of late, and the midfielder’s performance on Sunday again questioned why.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a superb 78 minutes, creating three chances and completing nearly all of his attempted passes.

Cherki was a constant threat, completing two successful dribbles and winning a staggering five free-kicks. In the duel, the midfielder was superb, winning eight of the 10 he contested throughout the night.

The former Lyon man continues to prove just how much of a bargain Man City secured when they spent just over £30million to sign him last summer.

On the midfielder after Sunday’s game, GFFN (GetFootballNewsFrance) reporter Bastien Cheval wrote: “The Lyon Academy graduate was an absolute joy to watch, linking up play with ease.

“Cherki also succeeded at evading Colombia’s press with his pace and his hypnotic touches. Involved in both Désiré Doué goals, Cherki was logically singled out by Colombian players who more often than not fouled him.

“One of them even struck him in the face. That’s how insufferable Cherki is for opponents, and how invaluable he became for France, despite being part of the squad for less than a year.”

What Cherki said after France display

Cherki should be set to go to the World Cup and feature prominently for France, if his performances for Man City are anything to go by.

Given what is known about Deschamps, however, the 22-year-old should be grateful if he is on the plane.

The former France midfielder is incredibly stubborn and prone to ignoring the players he does not fancy, even if they are in superb form.

Speaking after Sunday’s game, Cherki said: “I play simply. I know opposing teams are waiting to pounce, so the only thing I want is for my teammates and the fans to leave the stadium with a smile on their face. Whether I score or provide an assist is the least of my concerns.”