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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, previously coached greats like the Argentine maestro, Iniesta, and Xavi Hernández, has declared that Cherki ranks among the most skillful individuals he has ever seen and believes the winger will adopt the team-first mentality at the Premier League side.

Comeback from Layoff

The Frenchman, who moved to the Sky Blues from Ligue 1 for £30.5m in time for the FIFA Club World Cup in June, has made a mere seven games so far. Coming back from a muscle issue, he made a brief cameo in the success against the Toffees at the weekend, during which he nearly set up a strike for the Norwegian.

He is heading for the Villarreal game and could make his European debut for the club.

Manager’s Perspective

While calling for patience, the manager struggled to articulate the youngster’s qualities, suggesting that the biggest doubt might be how he fits in to the system and gets used to executing simpler tasks effectively.

“He is one of the greatest stars I have ever seen in my career,” commented the coach, puffing out his cheeks. “On a technical level he is excellent. The issue is his integration and his perception of each situation, what the match demands. He started during the Club World Cup, but then he had time off. We must proceed gradually, but his talent is undeniable: I have the sense that often when the ball finds him, the attack becomes more dangerous.

“He doesn’t always have to produce spectacular moves; he ought to make basic plays. Yet he possesses that something. Such as the assist to Haaland late in the game, plus countless actions he can do.

“He is a player immune to stress in possession. He reminds me of a playground player. He is grumpy – ‘give me the ball’ – when he’s overlooked, clearly. He hasn’t been a brief period in the team; it will take a bit since it’s vital to build chemistry.”

Inquired if Cherki will adapt into the team ethos, Guardiola responded: “Yes, definitely. Such individuals have great feel, very smart. They see everything.”

Recognition for González

The coach likewise highlighted Nico González, who appears set to feature in the engine room. The Spanish midfielder is present to Villarreal, where he is to be honoured ahead of the game in Villarreal, but is out because of a fitness issue.

He commented: “I feel that González is getting better consistently. We are very pleased with his behavior and he will improve year by year. He is cultured, open-minded, a great character. His parents have to be immensely happy with the man and player he is. He needs to stay true, yet while competing alongside top players, you continuously improve. You notice how your performance elevates, however, González should stick to his style, without a doubt.”

Team’s Strong Form

Guardiola also expressed delight regarding the team’s improving displays. “We net many goals, generating lots of chances, and at the same time not conceding much. There have been only eight Premier League matches as well as two in European competition, though I sense that each outing improves upon the previous one and will be surpassed by the next.

“We discuss frequently how we can improve and how we can understand situations better. I have great trust in the squad and I’m aware they are working hard. We are showing very good form.”