Man City's Erling Haaland now sends two-word message to Rayan Cherki that should worry Liverpool and Arsenal

Manchester City fans are anticipating a potent partnership between new signing Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland for the 2025/2026 season. Their promising connection was evident during a pre-season friendly where Cherki scored emphatically after combining with Haaland in City's 6-0 win over Al-Ain.

Cherki believes he can significantly boost Haaland's game by creating numerous chances for him. This potential pairing is seen as crucial following Kevin De Bruyne's departure to Napoli, filling the void left by Haaland's previously "telepathic" link-up with the Belgian. Haaland's proven ability to score goals (22 in the Premier League last season despite injuries, even without De Bruyne for parts) combined with Cherki's exceptional creative output (20 assists for Lyon last season) suggests Haaland could reach even higher levels.

The mutual confidence between the players is strong. Haaland publicly praised Cherki on Instagram ("Looking sharp, get ready"), with Cherki responding using emojis (hourglass and swords) hinting at their readiness to cause havoc next season. This burgeoning partnership is viewed as a major concern for rivals Liverpool and Arsenal, potentially being pivotal in City's title challenge.

The article highlights Cherki's creative pedigree, noting his 20 assists came in fewer starts than Mohamed Salah (23 assists) and while playing for a struggling Lyon side. Compared to Arsenal's top contributors (Havertz: 15 goals, Saka: 12 assists), the potential of Haaland and Cherki appears immense. Haaland's incredible goalscoring record since joining City (85 goals in 97 games), described by De Bruyne as a "machine," further underscores the threat.

If Cherki embraces responsibility at City and their on-field chemistry clicks, the duo could become unstoppable for Premier League managers. City fans hope their partnership will mirror Haaland's success with De Bruyne or Silva's with Agüero. Haaland's apparent long-term interest in Cherki, indicated by liking transfer news about his signing, adds to the optimism. While Liverpool and Arsenal hope the pairing underwhelms, their pre-season link-up against Al-Ain and Juventus suggests that outcome is unlikely.