France captain Kylian Mbappe recently claimed Cherki was a “very spectacular talent” whilst teammate Ibrahima Konate stated he was “flamboyant, old-school" and “he can achieve great things in the world of football with all his qualities. But it all depends on him.”
Cherki is old school
Cherki is just 22 years old and as City aim to reclaim the Premier League title at the end of the campaign, he was asked about his objectives for this season after scoring 12 goals and assisting 20 times in 44 matches for Lyon last season.
"I’m not a stats guy. I think that you can see that in the way that I play football.
"I’m an old-school footballer, and the ‘old-school’ didn’t look at stats. I know that nowadays, that element is very important."
Cherki still backs Lyon
Cherki also revealed how he was angry when Manchester United knocked out Lyon last season, as he sticks by his former side.
"I (didn't) like (it) when Manchester United won the game against Lyon because I'm a Lyonnais. Now I am waiting for the game (to) kill them. I'm here to win all the games."
Guardiola has given him freedom
Finally, the Frenchman explained what City manager Pep Guardiola has instructed him to do in possession, as he allows him the freedom needed to express himself on the pitch.
"I'm not Kevin De Bruyne, he is the legend. I'm here to help the team and to write my own story. I hope to win all the time with the team.
"When I spoke with Pep, he wanted me - he was very, very clear. Pep told me, 'when you have the ball, you are free', which is very good for me because it's my first quality to help the team."
Cherki has four goals and four assists for the Blues since his £34M move from Lyon. After a harsh injury, he now looks to be at full speed under Guardiola, who will be happy to see him thriving once more.