Rayan Cherki has hit back at criticism of his recent performances after France’s Nations League victory over Belgium on Monday, insisting that he is still adapting to a new position with Manchester City.
The former OL player has faced growing scrutiny from French supporters and the wider public. Cherki believes his dip in form is linked to the demands of his new role, which requires him to produce more complete and consistent performances rather than rely solely on his dribbling and passing.
Speaking to TF1 after France’s match against Belgium, Cherki said: “You have talked about my dribbling and my passing, but I am playing in a role now where I am forcing myself to produce complete and clean performances.
“The real football experts understand that. Those who think otherwise do not understand these things. I have learned to play in a new position. I have to produce performances that are clean and consistent, and it is a position I like.
“You will see over time that it will become a simpler position for me.”
Cherki began the match on the substitutes’ bench but made a strong impact after coming on. He scored France’s second goal in the 81st minute, finishing from a pass by Michael Olise.
The goal also gave him the opportunity to address reports of a possible lack of understanding between himself and Olise, who plays for Bayern Munich.
Cherki rejected the suggestion that there was tension between the pair and instead praised the atmosphere within the France squad and backroom staff.
“We have extraordinary team cohesion,” he said. “You do not see that because it happens privately, among us. I have rarely known a group that plays so well from the first player to the last.
“From the first member of staff to the last member of staff, the feeling is incredible. It is enjoyable, and you can feel it on the pitch.”
Cherki’s comments came after he had contributed directly to France’s victory despite not being selected in the starting line-up. His goal against Belgium provided a response on the field as he continues to adjust to the expectations attached to his new position.
The Manchester City player said he understood that the change in his responsibilities required time, with consistency now a central part of his game. While he acknowledged the attention surrounding his performances, Cherki maintained that his development in the role would become clearer over time.