Rayan Cherki has arrived at Manchester City not just to play — but to make a statement. The 21-year-old French star has set tongues wagging after declaring he’s “waiting to kill” Manchester United, promising revenge after a heated Europa League history with the Red Devils.
Highlights:
- Rayan Cherki says he’s “waiting to kill” Man United after joining City.
- The ex-Lyon player has unfinished business with United following a fiery Europa League clash.
- Pep Guardiola sees Cherki as De Bruyne’s creative successor.
- United fans are fuming after their club missed out on signing the talented Frenchman.
Main Story:
Manchester City’s new midfield sensation Rayan Cherki has wasted no time setting the tone for his Premier League debut season — by issuing a fiery challenge to Manchester United. In an interview shortly after signing, the former Lyon star made it clear: “I’m waiting to kill them.”
The comments stem from a tense Europa League face-off last season, where Cherki clashed with United fans and players. Now with the blue side of Manchester, he’s determined to finish what he started — this time on English soil.
Pep Guardiola reportedly sees Cherki as a long-term creative force following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure. The 21-year-old had an outstanding 2024/25 campaign with Lyon, registering 12 goals and 20 assists across all competitions — numbers that put him on the radar of several European giants.
“Pep told me to express myself. He said I’m not Kevin, I’m Rayan,” Cherki told TalkSport, signaling his desire to forge his own legacy.
Interestingly, Manchester United were once in talks to sign Cherki, but failed to close the deal — a move now haunting fans as they watch the prodigy link up with their fiercest rivals.
United supporters have taken to social media to express their disappointment and concern, with some claiming the club is losing its grip on Europe’s top talents.
With swagger, skill, and a score to settle, Cherki is arriving in Manchester not just as a player — but as a personality. And with City eyeing dominance across the Premier League and Club World Cup, his hunger for vengeance might be just what Pep’s side needs.
Whether it’s passion or provocation, one thing’s clear — Rayan Cherki isn’t here to make friends in Manchester. He’s here to conquer.
