Super sub or starter? Man City's Cherki dilemma

What the report says

Rayan Cherki’s early Manchester City career is already posing a selection question for manager Enzo Maresca: use him as a starter, or as an impact substitute. According to BBC Sport, the France playmaker changed Sunday’s match against Bournemouth after coming off the bench, helping City recover to win Maresca’s first Premier League game in charge. Cherki set up one equaliser and the late winner, underlining the creative value he can bring in a short spell.

Maresca said before City’s next league match at Crystal Palace that Cherki has a different kind of quality and can help in tight moments in the final third. He also suggested the player’s role will depend on the opponent and the game plan, while praising the 23-year-old’s work rate. After the Bournemouth comeback, Maresca said Cherki would certainly be useful now and in the future.

The article also notes that Cherki was visibly unhappy at being named on the bench, and that he has a history of showing frustration when not used heavily. BBC Sport says he has now produced 12 assists from open play since the start of last season, more than any other Premier League player in that period. His career arc matters because City signed him from Lyon for £30m in June 2025, and the club has previously acknowledged concerns about his attitude, even while valuing his talent.