Manchester City claimed a vital Premier League victory away at Nottingham Forest thanks to a late goal from Rayan Cherki. The French playmaker scored in the 83rd minute to secure a 2–1 win and extend City’s winning run to six league matches. Below you will see information about is news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
The match was far from easy for Pep Guardiola’s side. Forest defended well and matched City’s intensity, making the contest tight and physical until the final moments at the City Ground. Cherki’s goal proved decisive in a match where margins were small. The victory kept City firmly in the title race and maintained pressure on league leaders Arsenal.
A Celebration Inspired by Erling Haaland
After scoring the winner, Cherki celebrated with Erling Haaland’s famous lotus pose. The moment quickly caught attention, and Cherki later revealed that the celebration was encouraged by Haaland himself.
Speaking after the game, Cherki explained that Haaland had jokingly told him earlier in the week to copy the celebration if he scored. When the moment arrived, Cherki happily followed through. The gesture highlighted the strong bond within the City squad. It also showed Cherki’s growing confidence and comfort since joining the club from Lyon last summer.
Read Also: Manchester United Rekindle Interest in Conor Gallagher
Cherki’s Growing Influence at City
Although this was Cherki’s first league goal since the opening day, his impact goes far beyond scoring. He leads the Premier League in assists and continues to be a creative force for Guardiola’s side. Against Forest, Cherki set up the opening goal with a precise pass for Tijjani Reijnders.
Even after Omari Hutchinson equalized, Cherki remained calm and influential throughout the match. After recovering from a long injury layoff earlier in the season, Cherki has now contributed to seven goals in his last eight appearances. His recent form has made him one of City’s most important players.
Guardiola Praises Mentality as Title Race Heats Up
Pep Guardiola praised his team’s mentality after the match, admitting Forest made City work extremely hard. He described the victory as “really big” given the difficulty of the fixture. Guardiola also complimented Forest’s organization and intensity, especially during the demanding winter schedule.
He emphasized that City’s focus and readiness were key to securing the win. With a tough run of fixtures ahead, including games against Chelsea and Brighton, Guardiola knows consistency will be crucial. City remain determined, knowing the title race with Arsenal will demand near-perfect performances. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest stories.