Overview
- Manchester City defeated Sunderland 3-0 at the Etihad, with Rayan Cherki's improvised rabona cross setting up Phil Foden for the third goal.
- Pep Guardiola praised Cherki's composure and final‑third quality, saying he had never seen Lionel Messi deliver a cross like the Frenchman's.
- Guardiola stressed that Cherki must focus on simple decisions and team responsibilities, warning that neglecting those demands would leave him "in trouble."
- City supporters gave Cherki a standing ovation as he left the pitch, reflecting growing confidence in his influence.
- Cherki, a summer arrival from Lyon who described himself as a "free soul," framed the rabona as part of his creativity as commentators suggest his form could earn a bigger role in a tight title race.