'I'm really pleased he came here' - Pep Guardiola insists Man City's Kevin De Bruyne replacement Rayan Cherki 'has incredible skills' despite underwhelming CWC debut

City have splashed out £34 million (€40m) to bring in Cherki from Lyon as part of a summer rebuild. The new signing was handed his debut at the Club World Cup against Wydad AC but failed to shine in the 2-0 victory for Pep Guardiola's side.

Cherki has had plenty to say since arriving at City from Lyon. The France international has already vowed to "kill" rivals Manchester United and has set his sights on winning the Ballon d'Or. Guardiola was quizzed on his new arrival after his debut and claimed that the star has "incredible skills" despite his muted start.

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He told a post-match press conference: "Of course Kevin is difficult to replace we know that. For the quality he has, there is no doubt about it, but at same time the club decided on Rayan because he has incredible skills close to the box and great vision, pass in many things. It was just a first game with tough, tough conditions. I'm really pleased he came here."

Cherki and Manchester City are back in action on Sunday in the Club World Cup when they face Al Ain in their second group game.