Rayan Cherki is a French professional footballer known for his dazzling dribbling skills, creativity, and tactical versatility. Born on August 17, 2003, in Lyon, France, he has quickly become one of Europe’s most exciting young prospects. Cherki primarily plays as an attacking midfielder or winger and has been a standout performer for Olympique Lyonnais. Recently, his consistent brilliance earned him a long-awaited call-up to the French national team.
Over the years, Cherki has impressed fans and coaches alike with his vision, flair, and technique. His ability to change the tempo of a game and create goal-scoring opportunities makes him one of the most watchable talents in modern football. As he continues to mature, many believe he could soon follow in the footsteps of legends like Zinedine Zidane and Kylian Mbappé.
Quick Facts of Rayan Cherki
| Full Name | Mathis Rayan Cherki |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 17, 2003 (Age: 21) |
| Place of Birth | Lyon, France |
| Nationality | French (Eligible for Algeria and Italy) |
| Height | 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Position | Attacking Midfielder / Winger |
| Current Club | Olympique Lyonnais |
| Contract Expiry | June 30, 2026 |
| Youth Clubs | AS Saint-Priest (2009–2010), Lyon (2010–2019) |
| Senior Debut | October 19, 2019 |
| International Career | France U16–U21, Olympic Team (Silver Medalist 2024), France Senior Team (2025) |
| Net Worth | £8.57 million ($10.5 million) |
| Salary | £65,410 per week (£3.4 million annually) |
| Agent | Moussa Sissoko |
Early Life and Family Background
Rayan Cherki was born into a multicultural family in Lyon. His father, Fabrice Cherki, is of Italian descent and played amateur football, while his mother, Abla, has Algerian roots. Growing up in a football-loving environment, Rayan was inspired by his older brothers, who also played locally.
At just six years old, his potential caught the attention of coach Roger Martinez when he was spotted juggling a football effortlessly beside a pitch. This moment marked the beginning of his football journey at AS Saint-Priest, and by 2010, he had joined the Olympique Lyonnais academy. His rapid progress through the ranks reflected both his natural ability and relentless drive.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Cherki made his professional debut for Lyon on October 19, 2019, in a Ligue 1 match against Dijon — at just 16 years old. Shortly afterward, he scored his first senior goal in a Coupe de France match against Bourg-en-Bresse, becoming Lyon’s youngest-ever scorer at that time.
Soon, his talent drew continental attention. In August 2020, Cherki became the youngest player to appear in a UEFA Champions League semi-final, featuring against Bayern Munich. This feat not only showcased his composure but also his readiness for football’s grandest stages.
Since then, he has accumulated over 180 appearances, contributing 29 goals and 45 assists. Furthermore, his ability to adapt across attacking roles — from midfield to the wings — makes him a vital asset for Lyon.
Notable Achievements
Cherki’s rapid growth has been matched by his accolades. In the 2024–25 season, he was named Ligue 1 Dribbler of the Year and topped the league’s assist chart. He also made the UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year, the UEFA Europa League Team of the Season, and won the Europa League Young Player of the Season award.
Internationally, he represented France across youth levels before winning a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. In May 2025, his inclusion in the France senior national team marked a defining step in his international career.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
As of May 2025, Rayan Cherki stands at a crucial turning point. After an outstanding season with 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances, he has signaled his intention to leave Lyon. Consequently, several elite clubs — including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur — have expressed interest in triggering his €22.5 million release clause.
His performances have not only elevated Lyon’s attack but also solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest prospects. It’s evident that his next move could define the next phase of his career.
Personal Life
Though widely recognized for his charisma on the field, Cherki prefers to keep his personal life private. He maintains an active social media presence, focusing primarily on football-related updates and motivational content. Despite his fame, he is known for his humility and dedication to improvement.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Rayan Cherki’s net worth of £8.57 million ($10.5 million) primarily stems from his football earnings. With a weekly salary of £65,410, he is among Lyon’s top earners. Despite his financial success, he maintains a grounded lifestyle, prioritizing personal growth and career advancement over luxury.
Interesting Facts
- He became Lyon’s youngest-ever goal scorer at 16 years and 140 days.
- Cherki is eligible to play for France, Algeria, or Italy, though he has chosen France.
- He was a silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
- Known for his creative flair, he often practices freestyle techniques during training sessions.
Future Outlook and Legacy
Looking ahead, Cherki aims to take his career to even greater heights. His anticipated transfer to a top European club could open new opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Beyond his statistics, his creativity and passion for the sport continue to inspire the next generation of footballers.
In short, Rayan Cherki’s story is still unfolding — and every match adds another exciting chapter to the journey of one of football’s most gifted young stars.
