Rayan Cherki: “My favorite club after Lyon? Definitely Real Madrid”

Rayan Cherki is a 16-year-old attacking midfielder for French club Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon). Scouts of youth football have long known of Cherki’s skill set, having been identified early — around 13 or 14 years of age — as a potential Real Madrid level talent. The teenager, born in 2003, has already made 12 senior appearances for Lyon and has contributed with 3 goals and 2 assists.

In an interview with club’s official TV channel, the youngster revealed who his favorite team was after Lyon, “Definitely Real Madrid. My dream is to play for Real and win the Balon d’Or,” he answered.

This is not the first time Cherki has spoken highly of the club. In an interview question earlier in the season, the player was asked to choose between Real Madrid and Barcelona, and selected the royal whites.

Spanish paper ABC reported that the French player would like to sign for Real Madrid this summer with a fee around €10 million. The plan would then be to remain at Lyon for a two-year loan period until he reaches his 18th birthday. Zidane is said to be and admirer of both Cherki and, 17-year-old defensive midfielder, Camavinga. Whether or not the above plan comes to fruition, it’s clear that Rayan Cherki, like so many others, would love the opportunity to don the white shirt.