Rayan Cherki has delivered a passionate message as France prepare for their World Cup round of 16 encounter, declaring that the entire team is burning with determination. Despite recent attention on his dynamic with head coach Didier Deschamps, the Manchester City midfielder maintains that his focus is solely on their upcoming knockout face-off against Paraguay.

Cherki expresses his hunger for World Cup glory

With France entering the decisive stages of the 2026 World Cup, Cherki insists that the team's desire to succeed is stronger than ever. The 22-year-old, who has had limited playing time in the tournament so far, appeared in a video shared by the French national team to rally the supporters ahead of their last-16 battle with Paraguay.

“This qualification, it’s magnificent, we are in the round of 16 of the World Cup,” said the Manchester City playmaker. “We are hungry, very, very hungry. We are now in the final phase of the World Cup. Whoever wins stays, whoever loses, have a good holiday! Right now, I think people may not see it, but we are hungry like crazy.”

The Deschamps handshake moment

His emphatic statement follows a viral incident after France’s 3-0 victory against Sweden in the group stage, where Cherki seemed to ignore a handshake from Deschamps. The clip sparked widespread debate, with many speculating that the midfielder was frustrated over his limited involvement in the tournament in North America.

However, according to French outlet L'Equipe, the national team’s coaching staff have not taken offence at the incident. Reports suggest that Cherki has been managing a “very difficult” personal issue that has caused restless nights. Those close to the player interpret the moment not as an act of rebellion but as a reflection of his own disappointment and inner frustration.

Team spirit takes precedence

Even though Cherki is regarded as one of the most promising young players in the Premier League, he has struggled to earn significant minutes for Les Bleus. The former Lyon star has yet to start a match in the tournament, with Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola currently ahead of him in the lineup.

Deschamps, meanwhile, has reiterated the importance of unity within the team. Speaking about the general atmosphere in the squad, the manager stated, “Players might be disappointed because they’re not playing enough or at all; there might be frustrations, but the collective strength is paramount.”

Eyes set on the Paraguay showdown

France are set to travel to Philadelphia for their round of 16 match against Paraguay, with a place in the quarter-finals on the line. The South American side are expected to test France’s defensive discipline, but Cherki’s powerful words indicate that the French camp is fully united in their quest for a third world title.

As the knockout rounds commence, the focus within the French camp is on precision and composure. With stars like Kylian Mbappe leading the attack, France remain among the favourites, provided they can channel Cherki’s “crazy” hunger into a dominant display on Saturday.