Pep: Cherki one of the most talented players I have ever seen | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says he is hugely excited about what a fit-again Rayan Cherki can bring to Manchester City, with the Etihad boss describing the French midfielder as one of the most talented players he has seen in his career.

Cherki, who joined City from Lyon in June, made a welcome comeback as a substitute in Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League win over Everton after spending more than six weeks on the sidelines with injury.

His impact was instantaneous with Cherki almost setting up Erling Haaland for what would have been his hat-trick.

Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of our latest Champions League clash away to Villarreal, Guardiola made plain his excitement about what ‘street player’ Cherki can provide to City - and his unique qualities.

“Rayan is one of the most talented players I have ever seen in my career,” Guardiola declared.

“His talent… he is top. The question is how he settles and how he needs to read actions.

“He started well at the Club World Cup but then had a few weeks off. I have the feeling most of the time when the ball comes to him, the situation is better.

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“But not all the time you have to do exceptional things - just play football. He has something.

“The pass for Erling in the last moments [against Everton], he can do it.

“He is a player who doesn't feel pressure. He is like a street player.

“He wants the ball when he doesn't have it.

“But he is here a short time - he needs a little bit of time because in football you learn to play with your mates.

“But these types of players are intelligent. They see everything.”

City will step out at the Estadi de la Ceràmica lying in eight position in the Champions League standings with four points from our first two outings.

A fine 2-0 Etihad win over Napoli was then followed by an eventful 2-2 draw away to Monaco in our last European outing.

Villarreal meanwhile sit in 26th position having drawn 2-2 at home to Juventus after being edged out 1-0 away at Tottenham in their league phase opener.

But their current standing of third in La Liga offers tangible evidence of the Soanish side’s threat and quality.

And for his part, Guardiola spoke of the danger posed by Marcelino García Toral’s side.

“In such a competitive league like Spain or England qualifying for the Champions League is a sign of quality,” Pep added.

“It’s not about defending, there's a lot of factors.

“I admire and respect him very much but on the other hand we are looking forward to playing a good game tomorrow.”