Erling Haaland sends clear message over Manchester City future with Rayan Cherki praise | OneFootball

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has sent a clear message of excitement regarding the future with Rayan Cherki in Pep Guardiola’s attacking set-up.

The Norwegian forward’s comments arrive amid growing optimism surrounding City’s new-look attack, which has undergone subtle yet strategic changes since the summer, headed up by the emotional departure of Kevin De Bruyne to Napoli in a free transfer.

Following the addition of Rayan Cherki from Lyon, Pep Guardiola has been reshaping his offensive structure around youth, creativity, and fluid positional play – all principles that Erling Haaland appears eager to embrace.

The latest show of enthusiasm from Haaland comes at a time when speculation surrounding his long-term future at City had begun to re-emerge, largely instigated by Spanish media and supposed interest from Real Madrid.

Yet, the 25-year-old’s latest words are another clear indication of his satisfaction and commitment to Pep Guardiola’s project at the Etihad Stadium, coupled with a reminder that the striker had penned a new 10-year contract earlier this year.

Erling Haaland has long emphasised his desire to play alongside technically gifted creators, and Rayan Cherki’s introduction appears to have brought a new dimension to the Norwegian’s game. The Frenchman’s flair and inventiveness have quickly made an impression, with Guardiola describing him as “a player with something unique in his vision and execution”.

Speaking during a new interview with CANAL+ Foot this week, Haaland admitted he is looking forward to working alongside Rayan Cherki at Manchester City “for many years”, as the Frenchman’s game aligns well with that of the Norwegian striker.

“I look forward to playing with him for many years. It’s going to be fantastic,” Haaland told the French television broadcaster.

The 25-year-old continued, “I feel he has something really special with the way he sees things, which is good for me because he’s always looking for me.

“I enjoy playing with him, being around him because he’s really a lot of fun and we joke a lot!”

Erling Haaland’s comments underline the success of Manchester City’s recruitment direction in targeting technically adept, forward-thinking talents such as Rayan Cherki to complement their more established stars.

Looking ahead, Pep Guardiola will be hoping that the early chemistry between Haaland and Cherki develops into one of European football’s most dangerous attacking partnerships. Both players are still entering their peak years, and Haaland’s public message of intent could be seen as a cornerstone for City’s next era.