We always want Cherki in the final third, says Pep

We always want Cherki in the final third, says Pep Pep Guardiola has made it clear that he wants Rayan Cherki to do the bulk of his work as far up the pitch as possible. Men's Team Pep: Naming Bernardo captain was my best decision of the season The French attacking midfielder has been key to City’s recent cup victories over Arsenal and Liverpool and appears to be growing into his role quickly in his first season at the Etihad Stadium. With nine goals and 11 assists across all competitions, the 22-year-old has adapted to English football and the particular demands of Guardiola.

50% off 2025/26 Home kits Speaking in Friday’s press conference before our trip to Chelsea this Sunday, Guardiola made it clear that he wants Cherki to remain as close to the opposition goal as possible, where his skill can do the most damage. “He has the ability and quality in the final third,” he said. “That’s why I sometimes say when they go to the goalkeeper for the ball I say no, I want you there in the final third.

“They have something that I like a lot with attacking players, how they play with rhythms, accelerate, decelerate, accelerate, decelerate, then immediately attack then stop, then accelerate again. “These players have this ability to play with the rhythm of the opponents and the vision to make the extra pass, this is what defines the best. ” Men's Team How can I watch Chelsea v City on TV?

The boss even went as far to compare Cherki’s composure to that of club captain Bernardo Silva, who Guardiola has relied upon more than any other during his near 10-year reign at City. “He’s one of the most unbelievably talented players I’ve ever seen and hopefully he can stay for longer because he has the attributes to be a top player,” said Pep, speaking of Cherki. “The attributes he has are difficult to find, he’s the same as Bernardo, in the difficult moments and under pressure, he acts like it’s a friendly game, that it doesn’t matter, and that’s so difficult to find.