Rayan Cherki earns first France call-up for Nations League finals
Olympique Lyonnais forward Rayan Cherki has been named in the France senior squad for the first time, with coach Didier Deschamps selecting the 21-year-old for next month’s UEFA Nations League finals.
Cherki, who has represented France at Under-21 level, enjoyed a standout season in Ligue 1, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists. His form has sparked transfer interest from English Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United, according to media reports.
“Rayan could have been here in March given what he has achieved with his club,” Deschamps said on Wednesday. “He has been so decisive in terms of his goals and his assists.”
Eligible to represent Algeria and Italy, Cherki’s senior selection for France ends speculation about his international future. Deschamps insisted, however, that he had not pressured the player.
“I’ve never blocked a player or prevented him from making a choice,” said Deschamps. “When I bring them in, it’s for our needs, not to prevent them from doing something else.”
France face Spain in the semi-finals in Stuttgart on June 5. The final and third-place match are set for June 8.
Deschamps will be without several key defenders, including Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde, all sidelined through injury.
(Source: AFP)
