Rayan Cherki provided two assists as a substitute in Manchester City’s 2–1 comeback against Bournemouth in 2026–27 Matchweek 1.
Manchester City defeated Bournemouth 2–1 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 23 August 2026. Bournemouth led for much of the match, but City scored twice in the closing stages to begin the campaign with a comeback victory. Substitute Rayan Cherki supplied both assists, making him the decisive creative influence from the bench.
The match began a new era for Manchester City after Pep Guardiola’s departure. Enzo Maresca took charge of his first City match, while Bournemouth were managed by Marco Rose. Both clubs therefore entered the fixture with new leadership, adding uncertainty to a game already featuring contrasting tactical approaches.
City’s late recovery made the result one of the weekend’s most dramatic. Bournemouth’s inability to hold their lead contrasted with Liverpool’s separate stoppage-time rescue at Newcastle, meaning both Sunday headline fixtures featured late turning points.