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City manager Pep Guardiola, previously coached greats like Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi, has declared that Rayan Cherki ranks among the most talented individuals he has ever witnessed and is sure the youngster will embrace the collective ethos at the Premier League side.

Recovery Update

The 22-year-old, who moved to City from Ligue 1 in a £30.5m deal just before the Club World Cup this past summer, has made a mere seven games to date. Following a a thigh injury, he came on for a five-minute cameo in the win over Everton recently, where he came close to assisting a strike for the Norwegian.

Now, he is heading to Villarreal where he earn his Champions League debut in a City shirt.

Manager’s Perspective

Although urging understanding, the boss found it hard to fully describe his talent, admitting that the main question is how he fits in to the system and gets used to executing simpler tasks effectively.

“Cherki is some of the greatest stars I’ve witnessed throughout my coaching life,” Guardiola said, showing amazement. “On a technical level he is outstanding. The key is how he adapts and his perception of each situation, what every action needs. He featured in the intercontinental cup, though he had time off. It’s about taking it gradually, though his skill is clear: I have the sense that frequently when possession finds him, the situation improves.

“It’s not necessary for him to try to do incredible actions; he ought to make basic plays. Yet he possesses a special quality. Such as the assist for Erling against Everton, along with numerous plays he executes.

“He’s the type who doesn’t feel tension on the ball. He resembles a pickup game star. He shows annoyance – ‘pass it to me’ – when he’s overlooked, obviously. It’s only been a short time at the club; it will take a while because you must connect with teammates.”

Inquired if Cherki will adapt into the team ethos, the manager answered: “Absolutely. Such individuals are very intuitive, incredibly bright. They perceive it all.”

Praise for Nico

Guardiola also praised Nico, who is likely to feature in central midfield. Rodri is present to his former club, and is likely to be honoured ahead of the game at their stadium, but is out because of a fitness issue.

Guardiola noted: “I believe that Nico is getting better steadily. We’re really satisfied with his behavior and he should keep getting better. He is refined, thoughtful, a wonderful person. His mum and dad should be extremely proud of him as a human and athlete he is. He has to remain authentic, and when featuring with elite teammates, you continuously improve. You realize how your game can improve, though Nico has to be himself, for sure.”

Squad’s Improving Performance

He likewise spoke glowingly about City’s recent performances. “We net plenty of strikes, producing a wealth of opportunities, while also not conceding much. It’s only eight Premier League matches plus two on the continental stage, but I feel that each outing is better than the previous one and is worse than the upcoming.

“We analyze a lot what we can do better and how to interpret play better. I have great trust in the players and I realize they are training intensely. We are displaying excellent condition.”