Rayan Cherki eyeing Ballon d’Or under Pep Guardiola and admits wanting to ‘kill’ rivals Manchester United

Rayan Cherki has set his sights on winning the Ballon d’Or after completing his move Manchester City.

The 21-year-old joined the Premier League champions in a deal worth £30.6million ahead of their Club World Cup campaign.

Having emerged as one of the brightest young prospects in European football, Cherki arrives at City fresh off his senior debut for the French national team against Spain earlier this month.

His ambition is clear – to become the best in the world – and he believes Manchester City is the perfect environment to make that dream a reality.

“When you see Rodri, he won the Ballon d’Or here,” Cherki said while speaking at City’s Club World Cup training base in Florida.

“It’s clear that with Manchester City it’s possible and I am here for this. I want to win and I think Manchester City wants to win it all. For me that’s better.”

Cherki is expected to feature in City’s upcoming fixture against Moroccan side Wydad AC in Philadelphia. Even before stepping onto the pitch in a City shirt, he’s already caught the attention of fans, particularly for his comments aimed at local rivals Manchester United.

Rayan Cherki can't wait for the Manchester derby 👀 pic.twitter.com/oL897HFGbW

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Cherki previously faced United in the Europa League. In the second leg at Old Trafford, Lyon were reduced to ten men but still led 4-2 before ultimately falling 5-4 in extra time.

During the tie, Cherki scored the goal that briefly put his side 3-2 ahead, and appeared to gesture toward the United supporters.

Reflecting on that night, he didn’t hold back: “I’m here to win all the games.

“I don’t like when Manchester United won the game against Lyon because I am a Lyonnais. Now I am waiting for the game [to] kill them.”

Cherki’s addition gives Guardiola another attacking option, especially in light of Kevin De Bruyne’s recent departure.

There is speculation about how well the French youngster will adapt to Guardiola’s tactical expectations, particularly his responsibilities off the ball.

However, he seems to have already connected with the City manager, who has given him a sense of freedom in possession.

“Pep told me: ‘when you have the ball, you are free’ which is very good for me because it’s my first quality to help the team,” Cherki added.

“When I spoke with Pep he wanted me. He was very, very clear. The system, the club, the city is very good. I spoke with Pep about my position on the pitch and we spoke about what I enjoy when I’m on the pitch.”

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