Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed mixed emotions towards Rayan Cherki, declaring that he wanted to “kiss him” following the player’s decisive contribution in their match against Nottingham Forest.
Cherki’s performances this season have been a mix of brilliance and inconsistency, yet he delivered when it mattered most, scoring the 83rd-minute winner in a 2-1 triumph at the City Ground.
The French international also assisted Tijjani Reijnders for the opening goal, which was eventually equalized by Omari Hutchinson amidst a spirited display from Forest.
Guardiola noted, “There are times I shout at him and times I want to kiss him, so I feel quite ambivalent. It’s crucial that we enable him to showcase his extraordinary talent. We need to improve our play from the back to provide him with more opportunities.”
“The second half was better.”
This victory marked City’s sixth consecutive win in the Premier League, sending a strong message to their competitors for the title.
After a first half devoid of shots on target, Reijnders gave City the lead with a goal in the 48th minute, only for Hutchinson to respond for Forest just six minutes later.
In remembrance of John Robertson, the European Cup-winning winger who passed away on Christmas Day, Forest put forth a commendable effort, but ultimately succumbed to Cherki’s late goal.
Guardiola noted that this was a match his team would have lost last season, stating, “I know memories fade, but in our six Premier League victories, games like these are critical, so this is a significant three points, especially considering the quality of the opponent. Sean Dyche has developed a formidable side.”
He added, “It’s vital to endure, defend well, and acknowledge when you’re not performing at your best, as otherwise winning is impossible. Last season, we would have lost this game.”
Forest manager Dyche felt that Morgan Gibbs-White was fouled before Cherki’s goal, leading him to voice concerns about the officiating.
“It’s clear to see for everyone. After playing so well, it’s frustrating to discuss how officials impacted the game, but they certainly did,” Dyche remarked.
“Anyone in the stadium and anyone watching at home could recognize it was an easy call for the referee, in my opinion, and even simpler for VAR.”
He continued, “I can’t fathom where the game stands sometimes regarding such decisions. I’m a big supporter of VAR, yet this is a call that should have been made.”
Dyche concluded, “Gibbs-White was clearly pushed down, and the same player was involved in stopping the ball, making it impossible for him to block it as he jumped.”