Just days before Manchester City kicks off its Club World Cup campaign, the club has sealed another exciting signing—and it’s one that fans have been buzzing about.
French star Rayan Cherki is officially a City player.
Cherki Joins the Blue Side of Manchester
At just 21 years old, Rayan Cherki has completed a big-money move from Lyon to Manchester City in a deal worth an initial £30.5 million.
He becomes City’s third signing of this transfer window, joining Rayan Ait-Nouri and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli at the Etihad.
Cherki has signed a five-year contract that will keep him at the club until 2030.
The timing of the deal is no coincidence. City has been racing against the clock to finalize their squad before the Club World Cup registration deadline, which closes at 7pm on Tuesday.
Cherki will now be eligible to play in City’s opening match of the tournament against Moroccan champions Wydad AC on June 18.
A Rising Star with European Honors
Cherki arrives in Manchester off the back of a standout season in European competition.
He was recently crowned UEFA Europa League Young Player of the Season after leading the tournament in assists.
That kind of creative flair is exactly what Pep Guardiola looks for in his attacking midfielders.
Cherki: “This Is a Dream Move”
Speaking after his signing was confirmed, Cherki couldn’t hide his excitement.
“This is a dream for me,” he said. “Joining a club like Manchester City and taking the next step in my career is something I’ve worked so hard for.”
He added: “Everyone knows how good City are—one of the best teams in the world for the last few years.
I want to take on the responsibility of helping them stay at that level.
I would only leave Lyon for a project I truly believe in, and everything at City points to growth, success, and development.
I can’t wait to show the fans what I can do.”
City’s Confidence in Their Newest Talent
City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, spoke highly of the young playmaker.
“We’re delighted to have Rayan join us.
He’s a top talent we’ve tracked for a while, and we believe he fits the City philosophy perfectly,” said Viana.
“He’s creative, technically gifted, and still has so much room to grow.
Under Pep’s guidance, there’s no doubt he can reach world-class levels.
We think the fans are really going to enjoy watching him.”
More Deals in the Pipeline
And City might not be done just yet. The club is close to finalizing another major signing—AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders.
The Dutch midfielder has reportedly completed his medical ahead of a £46.3 million move.
He’s also expected to be part of Guardiola’s squad for the upcoming tournament.
This has already shaped up to be a high-impact transfer window for Manchester City, and with young talent like Cherki joining the fold, the future looks just as promising as the present.