- Rayan Cherki’s performance drew attention
- Why Manchester United let the player slip away
- Manchester City star shining in debut season
Manchester United approached Rayan Cherki well before the French attacker’s move to Manchester City last summer. However, that move across the city proved beneficial for the Red half.
The Frenchman visited Old Trafford during his time at Lyon in the Europa League 24/25 season. He was on the losing side as the Red Devils won 5-4 in the quarter-final. But his performance caught the eye of ex-manager Ruben Amorim, with his ability on the ball earning fans’ admiration for his natural talent.
United responded by submitting a £25 million offer to the French side for the player. While Cherki initially showed desire, the deal ultimately fell through. Therby moving to the City for £34 million.
Why Man United Did Not Pursue Cherki
talkSPORT reports that United first began scouting the midfielder at the U15-U16 level. They had even considered a move for the Frenchman during his early years.
Having made his senior debut for Lyon in 2019, he became the then-youngest goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League, aged 15 and 33 days, scoring in a defeat to his current club, City, in the U19s. Fast-forward to the 24/25 campaign, and reports from the Daily Mail suggest that the player had attitude issues.
During that period, Ruben Amorim introduced a rule where a player’s attitude and mentality should be the first consideration. Later, this paved the way for the signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
While it was the former coach’s first year in charge, the dressing room was different. His no-tolerance policy caused waves at United. Two players left the club. Alejandro Garnacho moved to Chelsea after voicing his frustrations about not starting the Europa League final. And Marcus Rashford left for Barcelona on loan, after being criticised for his performance in training.
Who Needs Cherki?
The £34 million move was not smooth sailing at first. During the Nottingham Forest game last December, which City won 2-1, there was an inside story. Cherki admitted he ignored manager Pep Guardiola’s instructions.
He said, “I prefer my assist to my goal. I didn’t really listen too much to the coach’s instructions, since he wanted me to stay out wide.”
Cherkri was keen on decision and believed it was the right thing to do.
“I felt I needed to move inside, it was the right moment, and I managed to deliver a great pass.”
However, that incident is now behind them. Now the 22-year-old has become the first Premier League player to reach double figures in goals and assists across all competitions this season.
On the other hand, United are doing well under interim manager Michael Carrick and are looking forward to Champions League football next season. Bruno Fernandes’ rise has been vital, as he provided his 18th Premier League assist in the 1-0 win over Chelsea. So, missing out the Frenchman seems to have worked well for the Red half.
