Manchester City have completed the signing of Rayan Cherki from Lyon, just in time for the attacking midfielder to be included in their squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States. The 21-year-old, who has made nearly 200 appearances for Lyon and earned two caps for France, has signed a five-year deal that runs until 2030. The transfer fee is reported to be an initial £30.5 million, with potential add-ons to follow.
Cherki becomes City’s third signing in as many days as the club begins an overhaul of the squad following a disappointing campaign. The recruitment drive is being led by new director of football Hugo Viana, who has moved swiftly to bring fresh faces to the Etihad. On Monday, City secured the signing of left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolves for £31 million. The following day, Marcus Bettinelli joined from Chelsea to provide cover as third-choice goalkeeper, replacing the outgoing Scott Carson.
Upon completing his move, Cherki described the transfer as a dream come true. He expressed his excitement about working under Pep Guardiola and integrating into the club’s ambitious environment. Highlighting his long-standing dedication to football, he emphasized that City’s project was the only one capable of convincing him to leave his boyhood club. Cherki said he believed the move would help him grow as a player while contributing to the team’s future success.
Cherki offers versatility in the attacking third, capable of operating centrally as a playmaker or on either wing. The club views him as a dynamic addition who can provide creativity and flair in the final third. Viana praised the new arrival, highlighting the club’s long-standing interest in the Frenchman and expressing confidence that supporters would be excited by his style of play.
The player also paid tribute to Lyon in a heartfelt message, thanking the club and its supporters for their support throughout his development. He described his time at the club as emotionally rich and pledged to carry Lyon’s values with him into the next chapter of his career.
City’s transfer activity looks set to continue, with the club on the verge of completing a deal for Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. A fee of £46.3 million has already been agreed, and the move is expected to be finalized shortly.
In addition to player acquisitions, the club has made key additions to the coaching staff. Pepijn Lijnders has joined as assistant coach, bringing valuable experience from his time working alongside Jürgen Klopp. Meanwhile, James French arrives as set-piece coach, having spent over a decade in an analytical role at Liverpool. These changes mark a significant step in City’s effort to return to the top both domestically and internationally.
