Rayan Cherki is one of the best players in Europe when he is in the right position, according to Enzo Maresca. The Manchester City head coach made the comment at his press conference before Saturday’s Premier League game at Aston Villa, as reported on City’s official website. Here is what Maresca said about the Cherki role and the balance he wants.
Rayan Cherki role: Maresca wants him between the lines
The French attacking midfielder has scored six goals and made two assists in his first 11 appearances this season, the club says. That includes a goal in Tuesday’s Champions League win over AEK Athens that mancity.com compares to his goal at Anfield earlier this month. “When we are able to find him between the lines, he is always dangerous,” Maresca said. “The goal the other night and at Liverpool are quite similar.”
The head coach also said Cherki likes to roam. “He loves the ball and to move a lot so a lot of the time he is out of that position,” Maresca said. “If we are able to keep him there and find him, he is one of the best players.”
Cherki curls home against AEK Athens. Photo: Manchester City (mancity.com).
Rayan Cherki role: freedom and the right balance
Maresca made clear he does not want to take the flair out of Cherki’s game. “This is something he needs to keep, he loves the ball and I’m not going to remove from his game,” he said. “We need to find the right balance.” He added: “I like when the players are happy but I also like the simple things. The most difficult thing is to do the easy things.”
The balance question applies to the whole team, according to the club’s report. City have scored 33 times in 11 games in all competitions, but Maresca said they must cut the goals they concede. “We are scoring many goals but I’m sure we can improve that,” he said.
For more on City’s recent games, read our AEK Athens report, our piece on Maresca’s reaction after Liverpool and the December fixtures guide.
Source: Manchester City. Image: Manchester City.
