Rayan Cherki: Manchester City sign French playmaker from Lyon on five-year deal on summer's first transfer deadline day - 'This is a dream for me'
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Updated 10/06/2025 at 20:52 GMT+1
Rayan Cherki has joined Manchester City from Lyon on a five-year deal after a productive season in France's Ligue 1. The creative midfielder will look to fill the giant boots of the departed Kevin De Bruyne as City look to revamp their squad this summer following a disappointing Premier League title defence. City ended last season in third place and failed to win a trophy.
Watch: Cherki's best bits amid speculation over Man City move
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Manchester City have completed the signing of Lyon playmaker Rayan Cherki on a five-year deal.
The France international joined the Premier League side for a reported £30.5 million fee following a productive season in Ligue 1.
Cherki told City's official website: "This is a dream for me. Honestly, to be joining a club like Manchester City and have the opportunity to make the next step in my career here is something very, very special.
"I have worked so hard for this all my life. I love this sport, and I can’t wait to develop further here in Manchester with Pep and his backroom staff.
"Everyone knows how good City are – they have been so successful for many years now. The responsibility to help the team continue winning is something I want to embrace.
"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 be successful in the future."
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Cherki starred for Lyon in Ligue 1 last season, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists as they finished sixth.
He also made an impact in the UEFA Europa League, scoring in both legs of Lyon's quarter-final tie against Manchester United and finishing the season with 12 goals and 20 assists across all competitions.
Cherki can play anywhere across the front line, having operated on both wings, as a central attacking midfielder and as a striker during the season.
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Cherki rifles past Onana in extra time as Man Utd ‘stare elimination in the face’
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Pep Guardiola's side had a disappointing season, finishing in third place in the Premier League.
They were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Real Madrid and lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace.
The summer exit of City legend Kevin De Bruyne left the club needing to add some creativity to the midfield, which they will hope Cherki can provide.
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