Manchester City climbed to the summit of the Premier League after a dramatic late strike from French winger Rayan Cherki secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
Artistry on the Pitch as City Honour a Legend
The matchday was poignant for Nottingham Forest, who paid tribute to their late European Cup hero John Robertson. The legendary winger, described by Brian Clough as 'Picasso', passed away on Christmas Day. In a fitting twist, it was Manchester City's own artist, Rayan Cherki, who painted a decisive masterpiece with a stunning 83rd-minute winner.
Pep Guardiola's side, who had been warned about their weight over the festive period, looked set to spurn a crucial opportunity to seize control of the title race. However, Cherki's intervention delivered all three points, immediately throwing down the gauntlet to Arsenal who played later in the afternoon.
A Contest of Grit and Late Quality
The victory was one City scarcely deserved on the balance of play. After a frustrating first half where Forest's disciplined low block stifled Phil Foden and Erling Haaland, the breakthrough came early in the second period. Cherki drifted infield, found space, and slid a perfect pass for Tijjani Reijnders, who finished coolly to give City the lead.
Forest's response was superb. Just six minutes later, Morgan Gibbs-White robbed Reijnders in midfield, combined with Callum Hudson-Odoi, and found Igor Jesus. The Brazilian's pinpoint cross was met by Omari Hutchinson, who scored his first goal for the club with a crisp finish to level the match.
With the game heading for a draw, Cherki produced the moment of magic. His low drive from outside the box weaved through a crowd of players and crept past goalkeeper John Victor with just seven minutes remaining. The goal secured City's eighth consecutive win and left Forest hovering precariously above the relegation zone.
Consequences and Challenges Ahead
The result extended a miserable personal record for Forest manager Sean Dyche, who has now lost 15 of his 17 managerial meetings with Pep Guardiola. The defeat was compounded by ongoing concerns over striker Chris Wood, who faces an extended spell on the sidelines after surgery, leaving a significant attacking void.
For City, the win was a testament to their champion mentality, grinding out a result when not at their fluid best. Guardiola's decision to name an unchanged XI from the side that beat West Ham was justified, though his team had to dig deep to solve the tactical puzzle set by Dyche's resilient Forest.
The result piles immediate pressure on title rivals Arsenal, highlighting the fine margins and mental fortitude required in a Premier League title chase. For Forest, the focus turns to the January transfer window and the considerable work required, both on and off the pitch, to secure their top-flight status.
