He was still in the category of unwanted players a few weeks ago, when his name kept coming up at Borussia Dortmund, Fulham, and even Paris Saint-Germain. But in football more than elsewhere, everything happens very quickly. Pushed towards the exit recently, Rayan Cherki ultimately stayed at home. Better still, the Olympic vice-champion extended his contract with Olympique Lyonnais.
An incredible turnaround which seems to be bearing fruit on the green rectangle. Because Cherki is emerging as one of the most decisive players in a Lyon team still in search of balance this season. Scorer when he came into play against Marseille last Sunday (2-3), Cherki did it again by breaking the deadlock against Olympiakos on Thursday (2-0).
Cherki, the real reasons for returning to form
Called to speak on the return to form of his attacking midfielder, Pierre Sage evokes real tactical reasons. According to the OL coach, Rayan Cherki has changed his approach without the ball into a central number 10 role which suits his qualities.
“ He knows how to express himself in this position where he has short relationships nearby and where he is covered behind, explained Pierre Sage. So it’s putting it in good conditions. But I especially liked that he made deep calls, like on his goal. The idea is that he manages to organize his game to do the right things at the right times. I like when he gets into action before receiving the ball and not after receiving it“, concluded the OL coach.
