Born and raised in Lyon, Cherki rose swiftly through the ranks, becoming the club’s youngest-ever scorer at 16
Manchester City have announced the signing of Rayan Cherki from Olympique Lyonnais, in a five-year deal that runs until 2030. At just 21, the French attacking midfielder already boasts 185 senior appearances for his boyhood club and a growing list of admirers across the continent.
“The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has put pen to paper on a five-year deal, which keeps him at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2030.
Cherki, a product of Lyon’s academy, is vastly experienced despite his young age, having already played 185 times for his boyhood club,” the Club said in a statement.
Born and raised in Lyon, Cherki rose swiftly through the ranks, becoming the club’s youngest-ever scorer at 16 and the youngest to appear in a UEFA Champions League semi-final later that season.
His performances in the 2024/25 campaign were particularly eye-catching. Cherki was named in Ligue 1’s Team of the Season — one of only two non-PSG players included — highlighting his consistent brilliance in an unpredictable Lyon side. He scored and assisted in both legs of a thrilling Europa League quarter-final clash against Manchester United, a tie Lyon narrowly lost 7-6 on aggregate.
He followed that up with a stunning showing for France’s Under-21s in a 5-3 win over England’s U-21 side, tormenting a team that included City players Rico Lewis and James McAtee with two assists and a goal. His senior France debut came soon after, scoring in a dramatic UEFA Nations League semi-final against Spain and playing a key role in France’s third-place win over Germany.
Upon signing, Cherki was visibly elated: “This is a dream for me,” he said. “To join a club like Manchester City and have the opportunity to grow under Pep Guardiola is something very special. I’ve worked all my life for this, and I can’t wait to show the City fans what I can do,” said the player in a statement released on Tuesday.
Cherki also revealed why he chose City over other suitors: “I would only leave Lyon for a project I really believe in, and everything at City suggests I can develop my game and help the team win. Everyone knows how good City are – the responsibility to help continue that success is something I want to embrace.”
Cherki brings flair and unpredictability — qualities that Guardiola has increasingly encouraged in his newer signings. Following the arrivals of Savinho and Jeremy Doku, Cherki fits the mould: a fast, two-footed, technically sublime attacker who relishes one-on-one duels and thrives in tight spaces.
Director of Football Hugo Viana praised the club’s newest recruit:
“He’s a player our scouts have followed closely. His creativity, vision, and confidence on the ball mark him out as a top-tier talent. Under Pep’s guidance, we believe Rayan can become a world-class footballer.”
Cherki will be available for City immediately and is expected to feature in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the USA this summer.
Dutch Deal Done
Manchester City have announced the signing of Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders on a five-year deal. The 26-year-old Netherlands international joins from AC Milan, where he has spent the last two seasons.
An energetic yet classy operator capable of playing in an attacking or defensive role, Reijnders was named Serie A’s Best Midfielder in 2024/25. That accolade came after netting 15 goals in 54 games, more than doubling his previous best tally in a single campaign.
“I am ecstatic to be signing for Manchester City. City are one of the biggest teams in the world, with the best coach, world-class players and outstanding facilities. Under Pep Guardiola, City have won so many titles, and I want to help keep that going with a lot more success in the coming years.
“It is also a dream come true to play in the Premier League. This league has seen many of the best Dutch players perform through the years and it’s an inspiration to follow in their footsteps. I am really looking forward to getting going, meeting the other players and showing the Manchester City fans what I can do,” said Reijnders.
Before moving to Milan, he made his professional debut at PEC Zwolle in his homeland ahead of becoming a regular at AZ Alkmaar. Since first truly making his mark at AZ in 2020/21, Reijnders has amassed extensive experience at both club and international level.
After making his senior Netherlands debut in 2023, he played all six games at Euro 2024 as his nation reached the semi-finals. He is now available for selection for Man City at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup in the USA.
“We are very happy that Tijjani has joined us, and we’re excited for him to join Pep’s squad. He arrives here with extensive top-level experience in Europe both at club level as well as on the international stage with the Netherlands. Tijjani adds extra energy, composure and creativity to our midfield and working with Pep and our coaches will only see him go from strength to strength,” said Director of Football Hugo Viana
