At a Glance:
- Rayan Cherki lauds Arsenal legend.
- Cherki praises his touch.
- How Cherki compares to former Arsenal superstar.
Manchester City maestro Rayan Cherki is a player who must not be popular with Arsenal fans for multiple reasons.
Most recently, the 22-year-old scored a phenomenal solo goal against the Gunners in City’s 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium.
However, it was in the Carabao Cup final where Cherki took the mickey and did kick-ups when Manchester City were leading 2-0.
However, Arsenal should have tried to sign Cherki in the summer as there is no questioning that he is an incredible young talent. Considering Arsene Wenger’s history of signing mavericks from France, he would have been a perfect cultural fit.
Cherki has been quizzed about whether he would like to be associated with a signature move, much like Arsenal great Dennis Bergkamp for his pirouette and touch.
Rayan Cherki praises Arsenal icon Dennis Bergkamp’s touch
Speaking to Men In Blazers, Cherki initially stated that legends like Bergkamp are top-quality players.
“The names [Dennis Bergkamp, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov] you mentioned are top players. They left their mark on the Premier League through their class.”
Despite Cherki being a phenomenon himself, he believes Berbatov as as well as Bergkamp’s touch was impeccable and claimed that he always studies former greats.
“And I’m trying out [things] players [did who] I’ve watched a lot. Berbatov has an extraordinary touch on the ball, Bergkamp the same, Rooney, some magnificent goals, so I hope I can leave my mark on the Premier League in my own way.”
Comparing Rayan Cherki and Dennis Bergkamp’s debut Premier League seasons
As sublime as Cherki is, Dennis Bergkamp is arguably the most technically gifted player in Premier League history.
However, if there is a player in the English top-flight who could hit similar heights to the Dutchman, it could be the former Lyon technician.
Cherki has taken English football by storm but Arsenal fans will be interested to discover how his debut campaign compares to Bergkamp’s.
| Premier League debut season | Dennis Bergkamp | Rayan Cherki |
| Starts | 33 | 18 |
| Goals | 11 | 4 |
| Assists | 9 | 11 |
| Goal contributions | 20 | 15 |
Considering Cherki has started almost half the league games Bergkamp did for Arsenal, his 15 goal contributions in comparison to the veteran’s tally of 20 is impressive to say the least.
However, Dennis Bergkamp was a one-of-a-kind footballer and after the 1995/1996 season, he eventually went on to cement his name as one of the best players in the history of the game.
