Rayan Cherki made his first start for Manchester City as they took on Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, and fans have reacted to the Frenchman’s performance.
Not a good day to be a Manchester City fan. Thomas Frank picked apart Pep Guardiola’s side in their own backyard.
Goals from Brennan Johnson and Joao Palhinha gave Spurs their second win of the season, in what was a statement performance.
City, on the other hand, will want to forget about this one. As will new signing Rayan Cherki, whose poor performance was widely noted by fans.
Fans react to Rayan Cherki for Manchester City vs Tottenham
The former Lyon man was not at his best against Spurs, prompting plenty of reaction on X. Many fans suggested he doesn’t look suited to the Premier League.
One supporter wrote: “Cherki is not that good. When he’s far from the final third he’s so unathletic and easy to press. Sarr is literally eating him alive.”
Another fan added: “Shock – Cherki looks terrible when he’s not coming on against tired defenders in the 77th minute.”
Others were equally unimpressed. One claimed: “Cherki ain’t made for the Prem. Needs to get used to the speed of the game, keeps losing it on the edge of the box.”
Another wrote: “Invisible first half from Cherki. We’ll see more performances like this when he starts. He’s not built for this league.”
The criticism kept coming, with one supporter describing it as an “embarrassingly bad half,” before adding: “City fans will have you think he’s Messi levels.”
Another questioned his attitude, saying: “Cherki’s mentality has to be questioned. Pep has had to tell him off before for lack of work rate. Today he got to play centrally and completely flopped. Was lazy in finding space, didn’t demand the ball with any real vigour. Stinker & hooked, as they say.”
Cherki can’t be judged for Manchester City yet
The Frenchman didn’t have his finest performance, granted – but it was his first start, and only his second game.
Cherki possesses undeniable talent, and Pep Guardiola wouldn’t have signed him if he didn’t believe in his ability.
He’s already proven against the likes of Manchester United in the Europa League with Lyon that he can perform against English sides – so he deserves time.