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Manchester City boss the Catalan coach, who has worked with icons including the Argentine maestro, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi, stated that Rayan Cherki is one of the most talented individuals he has ever observed and is confident the winger will buy into the collective mentality at the Manchester outfit.

Comeback from Layoff

The 22-year-old, who signed for Manchester City from Ligue 1 in a £30.5m deal ahead of the Club World Cup earlier this year, has managed only seven appearances so far. Coming back from a thigh problem, he had a short cameo in the win against the Toffees last matchday, in which he almost created a strike for the Norwegian.

Now, he has travelled to face Villarreal potentially have his European debut for the club.

Guardiola’s Insight

Despite asking for time, the boss found it hard to fully describe Cherki’s abilities, noting that the only concern is how he fits in into the structure and adapts to performing basic actions effectively.

“Cherki is some of the biggest talents I’ve witnessed throughout my coaching life,” Guardiola said, exhaling deeply. “On a technical level he is excellent. The key is his integration and his understanding of play, what every action needs. He played during the Club World Cup, however he had time off. It’s about taking it gradually, yet his ability is clear: I believe that often when the ball comes to him, the attack becomes more dangerous.

“It’s not necessary for him to have to produce incredible actions; he should simply make basic plays. Still, he owns that something. For example, the through ball for Erling late in the game, among many other things he executes.

“He is a player immune to tension in possession. He is like a street footballer. He gets frustrated – ‘pass it to me’ – when he doesn’t get it, you know. He’s been here for not long at the club; it will take some time since it’s vital to build chemistry.”

Inquired if the youngster will adapt into the team ethos, the manager answered: “Yes, definitely. Such individuals have great feel, very smart. They perceive it all.”

Praise for Nico

The City manager also praised Nico González, who is expected to start in central midfield. Rodri has travelled to his former club, where he is recognized before the match at the Estadio de la Cerámica, but is unavailable due to a muscle injury.

Guardiola noted: “I believe that Nico is improving consistently. We are very satisfied with his behavior and he will improve year by year. He is well-rounded, receptive, a great character. His parents must be very happy with him as a human and athlete he is. He needs to stay true, yet while competing with elite teammates, you always learn. You see how your performance elevates, but Nico should stick to his style, certainly.”

City’s Upward Trend

The manager additionally was effusive regarding the team’s current form. “We are scoring a lot of goals, creating numerous openings, and we are not conceding much. There have been only eight league games and two on the continental stage, yet I believe that every match is better than the one before and is worse than the following.

“We talk about a lot how we can improve and how to interpret play more effectively. I hold strong belief in the team and I realize the individuals are putting in the effort. We are showing very good form.”