Cherki already eclipsed this winter by the arrival of a big reinforcement?

The long-awaited emergence of Rayan Cherki finally seems to be coming to fruition this season. Although Cherki hasn’t even played more than two games in combined time since the start of the season, his performances marked a turning point for OL. In just four appearances, he has been the catalyst for Lyon’s recent successes, actively contributing to the three victories that have revived the team. After extending his contract for two years, Cherki immediately showed the extent of his talent, notably by scoring the equalizing goal against OM (2-3 defeat) and opening the score against Olympiakos in his first tenure (2-0). His influence was even more significant in Toulouse, where his decisive action allowed Malick Fofana to seal the victory, before shining in Glasgow with two assists.

A new kid to dislodge Cherki

His recent performances also attracted the attention of Gérald Baticle, coach of the Espoirs, who recalled him for the next meeting after an absence linked to his sidelining within the club. However, although Cherki is increasingly establishing himself in Lyon’s offensive activities, his defensive game remains subject to improvement. Coach Pierre Sage also underlined the efforts that the young prodigy must make in this area, while being convinced of his ability to progress. The emergence of Cherki in the attacking trio he forms with Fofana and Lacazette is reshuffling the cards within the Lyon squad, but the imminent arrival of Thiago Almada this winter could shake up the hierarchy. The Argentinian, a talented attacking midfielder, could not only push Cherki to surpass himself, but also provoke a reshuffle which would open the way to a possible transfer of the young Lyonnais, whose future remains uncertain in a club where nothing is ever fixed.