History of Rayan Cherki in Timeline

Rayan Cherki is a French professional footballer known for playing as an attacking midfielder or winger. He currently plays for Premier League club Manchester City and represents the France national team. He is recognized for his skills in attacking midfield and wing positions.

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Full Timeline

July 2019: Signed First Professional Contract with Lyon

In July 2019, Rayan Cherki signed his first professional contract with Lyon, committing to the club until 2022.

October 2019: Professional Debut

In October 2019, Rayan Cherki made his professional debut for Lyon in a Ligue 1 match against Dijon, which ended in a 0–0 draw.

November 2019: Senior European Debut

In November 2019, at 16 years and 102 days old, Rayan Cherki made his senior European debut in a Champions League group stage game against Zenit. He came on as a substitute in the 74th minute during the 2–0 loss.

January 2020: First Senior Goal for Lyon

In January 2020, Rayan Cherki scored his first senior goal for Lyon as a substitute in a 7–0 Coupe de France win against Bourg-en-Bresse. At 16 years and 140 days, he became the youngest player to ever score a senior goal for Lyon. He was also involved in all four of Lyon's goals in a 4–3 win over Nantes in another Coupe de France match, scoring twice and assisting two goals in January 2020.

August 2020: UEFA Champions League Match Against Bayern Munich

On 19 August 2020, Rayan Cherki played in a UEFA Champions League match against Bayern Munich, becoming the youngest player to feature in a UEFA Champions League semi-final. Lyon lost the match 3–0.

May 2021: First Ligue 1 Goal

In May 2021, Rayan Cherki scored his first Ligue 1 goal in a 3–2 win over Monaco, securing the victory for Lyon.

September 2024: Contract Extension with Lyon

In September 2024, Rayan Cherki extended his contract with Lyon until 2027, which includes an optional year.

June 2025: Signed with Manchester City

On 10 June 2025, Rayan Cherki signed a five-year contract with Premier League club Manchester City for an initial fee of €36.5m, with potential add-ons and a 15% sell-on clause.

June 2025: Debut for French Senior Squad

On 5 June 2025, Rayan Cherki debuted for the French senior squad, scoring and assisting in a 5–4 loss against Spain in the Nations League semi-finals. Three days later, on 9 June, he earned his first start in a 2–0 victory against Germany in the same tournament.