Manchester United will be well aware of the risk that Rayan Cherki poses ahead of the second leg against Lyon.
Everyone associated with Manchester United is aware that the entire season hinges on winning the Europa League. The next hurdle is a second-leg clash against Lyon at Old Trafford.
Before last week’s 2-2 draw against Lyon, former United star Nemanja Matic raved about Rayan Cherki – the 21-year-old midfielder who has been key for the French side this season.
Cherki has been described as a “genius” by Lyon teammate Ainsley Maitland-Niles, and Ruben Amorim knows he will have to keep the Frenchman quiet if United plan to win on Thursday evening.
Man United warned about Rayan Cherki’s ‘attitude’ problems
Rayan Cherki has been outstanding for Lyon this season with 11 goals and 18 assists across all competitions. It feels like a breakthrough for a player who has always had incredible potential.
And it is starting to catch the attention of European giants, including Manchester United. United wanted to sign Cherki aged 15 but ended up walking away from a deal.
The reason is there were concerns over Cherki’s attitude, and a recent report from the Daily Mail dives into his off-pitch issues.
The report described Cherki as being viewed as “Lackadaisical in his defensive work; often trying tricks while down to walking pace”. Other sources suggested his attitude has been a stumbling block to him making it at the top level.
Former Lyon coach Fabio Grosso gave a damning insight on Cherki’s behaviour: “He’s a player, not an exceptional player. He’s a player like any other, with certain additional qualities.
“But technical qualities are not enough: there are also mental and physical aspects. He has enormous technical talent, but he needs to work on the rest.”
United’s attitude has been heaviliy criticised by fans and pundits over the years, and the last thing Amorim needs is a player who could cause problems off the pitch.
Ineos prepared to continue £25m Rayan Cherki gamble
Despite reports of Cherki’s attitude being a problem, it does seem as though he has matured this season and Ineos are paying close attention.
There is a growing feeling that Cherki could be the next Eric Cantona if he is able to fulfil his potential, so Ineos are willing to continue chasing a deal despite any red flag reports.
Cherki is expected to cost £25m this summer, with reports suggesting he has an agreement with cash-strapped Lyon that he will leave at the end of the season.
READ MORE: Who is Man Utd target Rayan Cherki? Age, position, stats and Eric Cantona comparisons
With United on the search for a new No.10 who suits Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, it is easy to see how Cherki could fit into those plans, especially at a cheap price.
It would certainly be a gamble, especially as there would be an intense media spotlight on Cherki at Old Trafford. But Ineos feel he is too good of a player to snub.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
