Cherki’s double powers City to 4-1 victory over Palace

Rayan Cherki struck twice in the early stages of the second half to turn Manchester City’s 4-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park into a showcase of individual brilliance. Erling Haaland opened and closed the scoring, but it was Cherki’s two goals that seized the momentum, with his first involving a dazzling dribble past Palace defenders before a precise finish.

Jamie Redknapp, speaking to Sky Sports, described Cherki’s performance as a masterpiece, calling the French winger a “genius” for the balance, poise and audacity he displayed. Redknapp likened his style to that of Eden Hazard and the late Georgian Kinkladze, noting the rarity of such control in tight spaces and the ability to shift the ball onto his left to find the corner. He also stressed the importance of giving a player of Cherki’s calibre freedom, arguing that structured systems can stifle a maverick talent.

Beyond the goals, Redknapp highlighted Cherki’s all‑round contribution: pressing, dictating play when Palace had possession and influencing the game both on and off the ball. The former England midfielder suggested that Cherki’s dribbling in confined areas forces defenders to hesitate, making him a constant threat.