- Rayan Cherki delivered a goal and assist as Manchester City claimed a hard-fought 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest on December 27, 2025.
- Cherki assisted Tijjani Reijnders for the opener (48′) and scored the winner (83′), ending his Premier League goal drought.
- Omari Hutchinson equalized for Forest (54′), but City held on for their sixth straight league victory.
- The result briefly sent Manchester City top of the Premier League, extending their winning run to eight across competitions.
Cherki’s Magic Unlocks Stubborn Forest Defense
Manchester City overcame a resilient Nottingham Forest side at the City Ground, thanks to Rayan Cherki’s decisive contributions. The French midfielder’s performance highlighted his growing influence in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
A goalless first half saw City dominate possession but struggle against Forest’s compact shape. Erling Haaland remained isolated, with neither side registering shots on target.
The breakthrough arrived early in the second half. Cherki’s intricate pass released Tijjani Reijnders, who slotted calmly for his fourth goal of the season.
Forest responded swiftly: Igor Jesus set up Omari Hutchinson for a close-range equalizer, energizing the home crowd.
City pressed relentlessly. Cherki struck the post before his 83rd-minute winner—a first-time drive through bodies from Josko Gvardiol’s knockdown off Phil Foden’s corner.
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s celebrations underscored the win’s importance amid title pressure.
Guardiola’s Side Show Resilience in Title Race
Pep Guardiola’s team extended their unbeaten run, briefly topping the table before Arsenal’s later fixture. The victory—City’s sixth consecutive Premier League win—maintained momentum across fronts.
Cherki’s impact grew: seventh assist, fifth goal. His creativity unlocked Forest’s defense, aligning with Guardiola’s transition-focused evolution.
Forest impressed despite defeat: territorial dominance, chances created. Sean Dyche’s side remains mid-table, five points above relegation.
Tributes preceded kick-off for Forest legend John Robertson, who passed on Christmas Day.
| Match Key Statistics |
|---|
| Possession: Forest ~36% – City ~64% |
| Shots on Target: Forest 2 – City 4 |
| Goals: Reijnders (48′, Cherki assist), Hutchinson (54′), Cherki (83′) |
| Winning Run: City 8 games (all comps) |
Manchester City’s 2-1 victory at Nottingham Forest on December 27, 2025, exemplified resilience in a demanding title race. Rayan Cherki emerged as the hero, blending assist and goal to secure three points.
A cagey first half frustrated City: high possession yielded no shots on target. Forest’s organization—compact midfield, quick transitions—neutralized threats.
Reijnders’ opener shifted dynamics: Cherki’s vision released the Dutchman for composure.
Hutchinson’s rapid reply tested City, but Cherki’s persistence prevailed. His winner—drilled low through congestion—sparked jubilation.
Guardiola praised grit: “Massive win… we suffered.” The result briefly topped the table, pressuring Arsenal.
Cherki’s form—eight goal involvements since November—addresses wing creativity. His two-footed threat complements Haaland/Foden.
Forest’s performance earned respect: Dyche’s tactics frustrated City long periods. Home struggles continue, but spirit suggests improvement.
This fixture honored John Robertson: armbands, applause, banners.
City’s streak—eight wins—signals resurgence. Defensive solidity (frequent clean sheets) complements attack.
Cherki’s emergence offers tactical flexibility: wide threat, central creativity.
The win closes 2025 strongly, positioning City for 2026 challenges.
