Rayan Cherki delivered a masterclass at Selhurst Park by scoring two brilliant second-half goals to help Man City secure a dominant 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace. Erling Haaland stood alongside Cherki as he collected the player-of-the-match award after the impressive display.
The 23-year-old forward, signed from Lyon for £30m, is out to prove himself under new boss Enzo Maresca amid the club's vast attacking options. After coming off the bench to assist two late goals against Bournemouth on the opening weekend, Cherki was rewarded with a start against Palace and fully justified his selection.
Maresca was particularly impressed with Cherki's work rate off the ball, noting that he successfully neutralized Adam Wharton. The manager praised the player's complete performance, combining attacking brilliance with defensive discipline.
This commanding win suggests that suggestions of a decline for Man City following Pep Guardiola's departure are wide of the mark. Cherki's unpredictable nature and match-winning genius proved crucial in maintaining the team's high standards.
