Who is Rayan Cherki? The 19-year-old sensation is now starting to fulfil his immense potential as Real Madrid monitor his progress.
Since Laurent Blanc was appointed to replace Peter Bosz back in October, the teenager has really started to make an impact in the first-team at Lyon, scoring in the recent 4-2 win over Stade Brestois.
So, who is Rayan Cherki? And why is there so much hype surrounding him? Let’s take a look…
Who is Rayan Cherki?
Well, the teenager has already racked up 76 appearances for Lyon’s first-team, making his professional debut in a 0–0 Ligue 1 draw against Dijon on 19th October 2019.
Cherki was just 16 years, two months and two days old at the time of his senior debut.
The France Under-21 international is considered to be one of Lyon’s greatest prospects in their history.
Cherki has scored four goals in his seven appearances for the France Under-21 side, which is mightily impressive given the fact he isn’t even 20 yet.
The Lyon No.18 is also eligible to play for Algeria thanks to his parents, who originate from that part of Africa.
Across his 76 appearances for Lyon, the attacking midfielder has scored ten goals while providing 13 assists.
As aforesaid, Real Madrid are huge admirers of Cherki.
According to Spanish news outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid are closely monitoring his development at Lyon, and could potentially make a bid in future if he continues to shine in France.
Kylian Mbappe is also a big fan of Cherki, who looks set to follow in the World Cup Golden Boot winner’s footsteps.
The Paris Saint-Germain No.7 said “don’t talk to him too much about age, huh” on Twitter after being told that Cherki was already making an impact at Lyon aged just 16.
Interestingly, while also professing his love for Lyon, Cherki actually admitted in an interview with Onze Mondial that he would love to join Real Madrid one day.
The Lyon wonderkid said: “We all know that my dream club is Real Madrid. It would be great to join the biggest club in the world. That’s the perfect itinerary, it’s the one I have in mind. That’s what I get out of bed every morning for – reaching my dreams.”
Rayan Cherki profile
Full name: Mathis Rayan Cherki
Age: 19
Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
Date of birth: 17th August 2003
Nationality: France
Place of birth: Lyon
Club: Lyon
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Salary: £28,000-a-week
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
