Cherki scores against Norwich but substituted at half-time for second consecutive match

Rayan Cherki scored his first goal for Manchester City on Thursday evening at the Etihad in the Carabao Cup round of 16 against Norwich (4-0). The French international did not, however, make it to half-time: Enzo Maresca replaced him with 18-year-old Ryan McAidoo for the second time in eight days.

The scenario echoed the Manchester derby against Manchester United last Sunday, where Cherki had already been substituted at the break in favour of Iliman Ndiaye. City won at Old Trafford thanks to a goal from Erling Haaland (60th minute). Before that, the former Lyon player had been deemed insufficient in the Champions League opener against FC Porto (0-2).

Against Norwich, Cherki had performed well in the first half. Set up by Ayyoub Bouaddi, he doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, two minutes after Floyd Samba opened the scoring (29th). A solid attacking contribution, but not enough in Maresca’s eyes to give him more playing time.

In the second half, Manchester City extended their lead without him. Allan Elias, signed from Palmeiras for €37.5 million, made it 3-0 as early as the 48th minute, before Floyd Samba scored a brace (54th). Both goals were set up by Rayan Aït-Nouri. Elias himself was substituted in the 71st minute.

Maresca’s decision on Cherki can be explained by the weakness of the opposition — Norwich have struggled in the Championship since the start of the season — and by the desire to manage his key players. Yet two half-time substitutions in two matches raise questions about the confidence placed in the French international, signed to make an impact in the starting XI.

Manchester City host Sunderland, managed by Régis Le Bris, on Sunday in the Premier League, with the aim of extending their run to five consecutive league victories. Cherki’s presence in the starting XI, and especially his ability to play the full 90 minutes, will be one of the key points to watch.