At just 21 years old, Rayan Cherki has become one of the most electrifying playmakers in European football. Known for his dazzling dribbling, razor-sharp vision, and game-changing assists, Cherki turned the 2024–25 season into his personal showcase of talent. From Ligue 1 to the Kubet Europa League, he delivered creativity at the highest level, finishing the year with 12 goals and 20 assists in all competitions.
A Season of Numbers and Magic
Cherki’s raw stats tell only part of the story. In Ligue 1, he played 30 matches, scoring 8 goals and providing 11 assists—making him the top assist provider in the league. He didn’t stop there. In the UEFA Europa League, he added 4 goals and 8 assists across 12 matches, leading the competition in assists and earning the Young Player of the Season award.
That brings his season total to 44 appearances, 12 goals, and 20 assists—a stunning return for a midfielder still early in his career. These aren’t just numbers; they’re proof of his ability to influence games consistently and decisively.
More Than Just Stats
Cherki is not a player who racks up assists through safe, short passes. He thrives on risk, invention, and flair. He averaged over five shot-creating actions per match and ranked among the top in Europe for progressive carries and dribbles completed. His style is fearless. Whether threading a pass through five defenders or curling a shot from the edge of the box, Cherki does it with confidence and class.
His movement off the ball and ability to drop deep to initiate attacks give him the versatility to play across the front three or as an advanced playmaker. It’s this flexibility—and his relentless creativity—that made him the heartbeat of Lyon’s attack last season.
Career Totals Before the Big Move
By mid-2025, before transferring to Manchester City, Cherki had amassed around 185 appearances for Lyon. In that time, he scored 29 goals and assisted 45 more. That’s 74 direct goal involvements—a remarkable record for a player who began breaking into the first team at just 16.
These numbers don’t include the countless moments where he created chances that weren’t converted, beat two or three players to open space, or swung the momentum of a match with one clever touch. His impact goes beyond what’s written on a scoresheet.
Recognition and Awards
Cherki’s performances didn’t go unnoticed. Alongside leading Ligue 1 in assists, he was named Best Dribbler of the Year and earned a spot in the league’s Team of the Season. In Europe, he stood out against elite opposition, finishing as the top assist provider in the Europa League and earning continental recognition.
Coaches and pundits alike have praised his football intelligence, decision-making, and flair under pressure. Former teammates describe him as “a magician,” and defenders across France have learned the hard way how dangerous he can be.
A New Chapter Begins
In June 2025, Cherki made the leap to Manchester City, signing a five-year deal that marked the next step in his already impressive journey. He scored on his debut in the FIFA Club World Cup and is expected to become a key figure under Pep Guardiola, who has long admired his technical qualities.
At City, surrounded by world-class players and under one of the greatest tactical minds in football, Cherki is perfectly positioned to elevate his game further. With his ability to break lines, create chaos, and deliver in the final third, he could become one of Europe’s most feared creators over the next decade.
The Future Looks Bright
Rayan Cherki isn’t just a promising young talent—he’s already delivering like a top-level star. His 2024–25 campaign was a masterclass in creativity and composure, showing that he has both the flair and consistency to shine on the biggest stages. As he enters the next phase of his career, one thing is clear: this is only the beginning.
