Manchester City attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki has been called up to the French national team for the November international break after a string of outstanding performances under Pep Guardiola.The 22-year-old, who joined City from Lyon in June, has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in Europe. Cherki has recorded three goals and three assists in eight appearances across all competitions, including his first UEFA Champions League goal in Wednesday’s 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund.
Deschamps Recognises Rising Form
Following his recent surge in form, Didier Deschamps has rewarded Cherki with a well-deserved call-up to represent Les Bleus in their upcoming fixtures against Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
Since his summer arrival, Cherki’s start to life in England has not been without challenges. The young midfielder endured a thigh injury in late August and further muscular setbacks in September, limiting his early-season minutes.
However, he has made the most of his opportunities in recent weeks, coming off the bench to score vital goals against Wolves, Swansea City, and Borussia Dortmund, showing remarkable creativity and flair.
Haaland Hails Cherki’s Talent
After City’s midweek Champions League victory, teammate Erling Haaland praised Cherki’s natural ability, even drawing comparisons to club legend Kevin De Bruyne.
“He has this kind of special ability which is difficult to explain, a little bit like Kevin [De Bruyne],” Haaland said. “He’s a special talent and we need to help him develop even more because he can be really good.”
France Squad News
France head into the November fixtures unbeaten in their last five games following their UEFA Nations League final defeat to Germany during the summer. In that run, Deschamps’ side have won four and drawn one, most recently sharing the spoils with Iceland.
The latest squad also features in-form stars such as Kylian Mbappé, who has netted 21 goals in 18 appearances for club and country this season, alongside attackers Hugo Ekitike and Bradley Barcola.
However, Paris Saint-Germain’s Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé misses out after sustaining an injury against Bayern Munich, while rising star Désiré Doué is also unavailable for selection.
Cherki’s inclusion marks a major milestone in his young career — and further proof that Manchester City’s newest playmaker is on the path to international stardom.
Written by Sports Desk | November 2025
