Rayan Cherki scored twice as Manchester City dismantled Crystal Palace 4-1 on Friday night. Enzo Maresca praised the winger's all-around play, calling it "complete." Cherki didn't just finish his chances. He worked the full width of the pitch, linked up with teammates, and pressed when City didn't have the ball. That's the kind of performance that separates good matches from dominant ones.
City controlled the game from start to finish. Palace offered resistance but never truly threatened to upset the hosts. Cherki's double essentially settled matters early, and City added two more to run up the scoreline. This is the kind of statement win the top teams need when the pressure starts mounting.
For Maresca, getting that caliber of output from Cherki gives him flexibility. The winger can fill multiple attacking roles without sacrificing defensive responsibility. That versatility matters when you're chasing titles. Palace went home empty, but City reminded everyone why they remain the team to beat.