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Manchester City boss the Catalan coach, who has worked with greats like the Argentine maestro, the Spanish genius, and the midfield orchestrator, affirmed that Rayan Cherki stands out as the most talented players he has ever witnessed and is sure the youngster will embrace the collective approach at the Premier League side.

Comeback from Layoff

The 22-year-old, who joined City from Ligue 1 for a fee of £30.5 million in time for the Club World Cup in June, has featured in a mere seven games to date. After recovering from a thigh injury, he made a brief appearance in the win against the Toffees at the weekend, in which he almost created a goal for Erling Haaland.

He has travelled to face Villarreal and could earn his European first appearance for the club.

Coach’s View

Although urging time, the boss was at a loss to fully describe his talent, suggesting that the biggest doubt might be how he fits in into the structure and learns to doing fundamental plays consistently.

“Rayan is among the biggest talents I’ve come across in my career,” Guardiola said, exhaling deeply. “On a technical level he is top-class. The key is how he adapts and how he reads play, what the match demands. He played at the Club World Cup, but then there was a break. It’s about taking it step by step, but his talent is undeniable: I have the sense that frequently when the play reaches him, things get better.

“Not every time attempt spectacular moves; he should simply play simple football. Still, he owns something unique. Such as the assist for the striker late in the game, along with numerous plays he is capable of.

“He’s the type who doesn’t feel pressure when receiving the ball. He reminds me of a street footballer. He gets frustrated – ‘give me the ball’ – when he doesn’t get it, you know. He’s been here for a short time at the club; he needs a bit as you have to build chemistry.”

Inquired if the youngster will adapt with the collective spirit, Guardiola responded: “Absolutely. Such individuals are so instinctive, incredibly bright. They see everything.”

Praise for Nico

The City manager also praised the midfielder, who is expected to play in the heart of the park. Rodri has travelled back to his old team, and should be recognized ahead of the game at the Estadio de la Cerámica, but is out because of a fitness issue.

The manager said: “I believe that he is progressing continuously. We are extremely pleased with his approach and he ought to improve year by year. He is cultured, receptive, a wonderful person. His parents must be very proud of him as a human and athlete he has become. He needs to stay true, but when you play alongside top players, you gain experience. You realize how your performance elevates, though Nico should stick to his style, for sure.”

Team’s Strong Form

The manager additionally was effusive on the club’s improving displays. “We put away plenty of strikes, producing a wealth of openings, while also not conceding much. It’s only eight league games plus two in European competition, but I feel that every match improves upon the one before and will be surpassed by the next.

“We discuss frequently what we can do better and how we can read the game better. I have great confidence in the squad and I know they are training intensely. We are displaying very good form.”