While the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is in full swing, some observers are already planning for the next editions. This is particularly the case of Nigel Reo-Coker, former England international, who sees a French player winning the prestigious award in the years to come. And his choice risks getting people talking: it’s Rayan Cherki.
The Manchester City player made his mark last Sunday at Anfield, during the Citizens’ victory against Liverpool (0-3). In the 78th minute, perfectly served by a backheel from Josko Gvardiol at the end of a superb collective sequence, the Frenchman showed his technique. After eliminating JĂ©rĂ©mie Frimpong with a hook, he adjusted Alisson Becker to score his team’s third goal.
A performance which did not escape British observers. On the set of CBS Sports GolazoNigel Reo-Coker was particularly complimentary towards the 23-year-old player, praising his audacity and creativity in a football that he sometimes considers too formatted. “We are looking at a future Ballon d’Or winner, he has all the qualities and abilities to achieve it. He has character, a personality, he is not afraid to dare and try things. Football needs more Rayan Cherki and fewer robots. He’s the type of player who can get me to pay to watch him.”launched the consultant.
Rayan Cherki, future Ballon d’Or thanks to Zidane?
For Nigel Reo-Coker, the development of Rayan Cherki in the French team could also play a determining role in his progress. The former midfielder believes that Zinédine Zidane has the necessary qualities to help the Manchester City player reach a new milestone. The French coach integrates him into a three-way midfielder to allow him to fully express his offensive potential.
“In France, he plays with players he adores and ZinĂ©dine Zidane can coach him and take him to the next level so that he has the impact of which he is capable. He influences the match. I don’t want him to make tackles or dictate the game all the time. I want him to impact the game in the last 30 meters, create chances and score goals. That’s what he does.”concluded the consultant. Strong compliments for Rayan Cherki, who Nigel Reo-Coker imagines capable of one day competing for the Ballon d’Or.
