‘I’m waiting to kill them’ – Man City’s Rayan Cherki Vows Revenge on Man United After Europa League Heartbreak at Old Trafford

New Manchester City signing Rayan Cherki has made headlines even before kicking a ball for the former Premier League champions, by issuing a fierce warning to their cross-town rivals, Manchester United. 

The 21-year-old French international, signed from Lyon for £30.4 million, admitted he still harbors bitter feelings over a painful Europa League quarter-final loss at Old Trafford earlier this year. The dramatic clash ended with United clinching victory in extra time through a last-gasp winner from Harry Maguire, dashing Cherki’s dream of a European farewell with his boyhood club. 

Now wearing City blue, the former Lyon star has made it clear he’s eagerly awaiting next season’s Manchester derby. 

“I didn’t like it when Manchester United beat Lyon. I’m a Lyon fan, and that hurt,” Cherki said. “Now I’m waiting for the game, to kill them. That’s why I wanted to come to Manchester City.” 

Cherki’s strong words reflect his competitive fire and unfinished business in Manchester. Interestingly, he had previously been linked to a move to United during his teenage years, but a move never materialized. That, combined with Lyon’s elimination at Old Trafford, has only fueled his motivation. 

Having joined the former Premier League champions, Cherki says it was a conversation with manager Pep Guardiola that sealed the deal. 

“Pep was very clear with me,” he explained. “He told me about the system, the club, the city, and how it all fits. I want to win trophies, and City wants to win everything. That’s the right environment for me.” 

Cherki, who made his professional debut at just 16, is widely regarded as one of France’s most technically gifted young players. His flair, vision, and versatility are expected to add another layer to Guardiola’s already star-studded squad. 

As the Premier League prepares to release its fixture list for the 2025/26 season, fans on both sides of Manchester will now have extra reason to circle the derby dates, especially with one of football’s rising stars eager to settle a score on the biggest domestic stage.