Pep Guardiola reveals why he refuses to give Rayan Cherki “too much” compliments | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted that he refuses to give Rayan Cherki too many compliments for his staggering levels of performance.

The French playmaker has quickly become one of the standout figures in City’s attacking play, delivering decisive goals and assists while operating with a freedom and confidence. His displays have drawn widespread praise from supporters and pundits, particularly following a run of strong domestic and European results.

However, Guardiola has consistently stressed that individual development at City is never complete, regardless of form. With the club balancing short-term results and long-term squad evolution, coaching staff have remained focused on maintaining high standards.

That approach has extended beyond Rayan Cherki alone, with Pep Guardiola recently highlighting the importance of balance within his squad, especially in midfield areas that have been disrupted by injuries.

Speaking to the media ahead of Manchester City’s home clash against West Ham on Saturday afternoon, Pep Guardiola was once more quizzed on Rayan Cherki and the Frenchman’s level of performance in recent contests.

“Really good! Especially for his age, the personality that he has. He’s a guy who plays like he was playing on the street,” Guardiola admitted. However, he continued, “But I want to push him! I will not give too much compliments.”

“I’m really satisfied, we’re really satisfied, because his impact in the final third, in goals and assists in every game, is quite impressive. And we cannot forget he’s so young! He has the right mentality to be better, better, and better. But a few things have to improve.”

Another name that has been integral to Manchester City’s recent success in terms of results has been defensive midfielder Nico Gonzalez, of whom Guardiola said, “The position that we’re in right now, without him it would not have been possible.

“Without [Mateo] Kova and especially Rodri, we don’t have a proper, proper replacement in that position. That’s why he recovers well, he’s young, and he helps a lot! But he has a margin to improve, and get better, especially with the ball. And we are working on it.”

“We can do better,” Guardiola said of his side’s overall performances. “We had results, but there are a lot of things we have to do better. Still we are not in the position in the way we play that we should be.

“But, it helps the fact that the mentality and commitment is incredible – that helps us to be there!”

Pep Guardiola’s comments underline a familiar theme from his time at the Etihad Stadium in that praise is carefully rationed, particularly for younger players still establishing themselves at the elite level.

For Rayan Cherki, that approach appears designed to ensure continued hunger and progression rather than complacency. And with City looking to consolidate their recent momentum against West Ham and beyond, the coming weeks could provide further opportunities for Cherki and Nico to cement their importance within the squad.

Pep Guardiola’s insistence on improvement, even amid strong results, suggests Manchester City’s evolution this season is far from complete as they continue to fight across all four fronts.