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Manchester City boss Guardiola, previously coached legends such as Lionel Messi, Iniesta, and the midfield orchestrator, stated that Rayan Cherki is one of the most skillful individuals he has ever seen and believes the forward will adopt the unselfish mentality at the Manchester outfit.

Return from Injury

The Frenchman, who joined the Sky Blues from the French club for £30.5m in time for the FIFA Club World Cup in June, has made only seven appearances to date. Coming back from a thigh injury, he made a brief appearance in the win against the Toffees at the weekend, where he almost created a strike for the Norwegian.

The player has travelled for the Villarreal game potentially earn his Champions League debut in a City shirt.

Coach’s View

While calling for time, the manager was at a loss to put into words Cherki’s abilities, noting that the biggest doubt could be how he fits in into the structure and learns to performing simpler tasks well.

“He is some of the biggest talents I’ve witnessed throughout my coaching life,” stated the manager, showing amazement. “Technically and individually he is excellent. The challenge is how he adapts and how he reads each situation, what the match demands. He started during the Club World Cup, however he had time off. It’s about taking it step by step, yet his ability is clear: I believe that most of the time when the play finds him, the attack becomes more dangerous.

“He doesn’t always attempt spectacular moves; he ought to play simple football. But he has a special quality. Like the pass for the striker in the final moments, among many plays he can do.

“He is someone who doesn’t feel pressure when receiving the ball. He reminds me of a street footballer. He shows annoyance – ‘I want the ball’ – when he’s overlooked, you know. He’s been here for a brief period with us; it will take some time since it’s vital to play together.”

Questioned if Cherki can integrate within the group dynamic, he replied: “Absolutely. Players like him are very intuitive, very smart. They see everything.”

Recognition for González

Guardiola likewise highlighted Nico, who is expected to play in central midfield. Rodri has gone back to his old team, and should be to be honoured before the match in Villarreal, but is out with a muscle problem.

He commented: “I feel that Nico is improving consistently. We are extremely happy with his attitude and he ought to develop further. He is well-rounded, open-minded, a lovely guy. His mum and dad should be extremely happy with the person and footballer he is. He needs to stay true, but when you play with elite teammates, you always learn. You see how you can get better, but Nico has to be himself, certainly.”

Squad’s Improving Performance

He likewise spoke glowingly on the club’s improving displays. “We are scoring many goals, producing a wealth of chances, and we are giving up little. We’ve played just eight league games plus two in the Champions League, yet I believe that each outing tops the one before and is worse than the following.

“We analyze often how we can improve and methods to interpret play more effectively. I have great trust in the team and I know the individuals are putting in the effort. We are in excellent condition.”