Rayan Cherki is only the latest talent fresh off the Lyon production line, but he may be the best yet. He joined Lyon at the age of seven from AS Saint-Priest and, aged 16 years and 140 days, became their youngest goalscorer in January 2020.

Manchester City has kickstarted the post-Kevin De Bruyne era by signing maverick France playmaker Rayan Cherki from Lyon for 36 million euros in time to play in the Club World Cup.

Cherki also said of his ambitions with City: “It’s very important for me to play the big cups like the World Cup and the Champions League. “When I saw that City wanted me and that they play in the Champions League, it was very important.

Rayan Cherki says he’s thrilled about the prospect of playing alongside City’s numerous attacking talents after finalising his move to the Club.

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has offered support to Rayan Cherki following his £30million move to Manchester City. The 21-year-old was one of the latest faces through the door at the Etihad Stadium as Pep Guardiola bolstered his side ahead of the Club World Cup.

Shaun: What a deal! What a player! The Premier league isn't ready for this boy's class - City rebuild is on. Oliver: I believe he is a great signing and will strengthen our midfield, especially with De Bruyne leaving.

“I am passionate to play for him!” A genuinely two-footed creative talent, Cherki has been one of the standout players in Ligue 1 since becoming a regular with Lyon in 2022/23. He provided the joint-most assists in the French top tier last term and was one of just two men outside of Paris Saint-Germain to feature in the league’s Team of the Season.