Peripheral World Cup stint may ignite Rayan Cherki’s City rise

In the quiet of the Etihad training ground, 22‑year‑old Rayan Cherki watches the squad drill, aware that his peripheral World Cup role could shape his next season. Being on the periphery of France’s World Cup campaign may spur him to become a regular at Manchester City. Since arriving from Lyon last summer, Cherki has logged 52 appearances across all competitions, contributing 10 goals and 15 assists for Manchester City. Those numbers underline his growing influence in the Premier League despite limited minutes. His spectacular play earned him a place in Didier Deschamps’ French squad for the summer World Cup. The French side’s depth forced Cherki to compete with Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué for attacking minutes.

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During the tournament Cherki made five substitute appearances, totalling just 61 minutes on the pitch. Deployed late in games, he did not have the chance to influence matches. France entered the 2026 FIFA World Cup as favourites and secured a 1‑0 win over Paraguay in the Round of 16 before reaching the semi‑final against Spain. The attack, led by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, also featured contributions from Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué. Enzo Maresca believes the experience could make Cherki a key player for Manchester City next season. Observing the qualities that make Mbappe, Olise and others dominant, Cherki now knows the level required to become a regular starter for his country. At 22, Cherki is still young but already has a season of Premier League exposure, having contributed 10 goals and 15 assists since arriving from Lyon. The World Cup, his first major international tournament, may provide the catalyst for his next breakthrough.