The world of football was stunned last night when Erling Haaland made a statement that immediately set social media ablaze. Following Manchester City’s intense Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund, the Norwegian goal machine didn’t talk about his usual focus on goals or tactics — instead, he openly praised Rayan Cherki, the young French talent who’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about names in European football.

In a post-match interview, Haaland said with a confident smile:

“He’s a great guy with special qualities… He has a bit of magic like De Bruyne, and I think I’ve found my dream partner after De Bruyne left.”

Those words — especially coming from a player like Haaland — carried shockwaves throughout the football community. The comparison to Kevin De Bruyne, arguably one of the best playmakers in Premier League history and Haaland’s most trusted teammate at Manchester City, instantly caught everyone’s attention. Fans and pundits couldn’t believe what they were hearing: was Rayan Cherki, the 21-year-old French midfielder recently linked to City, really being seen as the new creative force to replace De Bruyne’s golden touch?

Haaland’s admiration for Cherki wasn’t random. During the match, Cherki’s performance dazzled both fans and rivals. His effortless dribbling, vision, and unpredictable creativity gave Dortmund’s defense endless headaches. Though young, Cherki’s natural flair reminded many of early Eden Hazard — fearless, explosive, and capable of creating magic from nothing.

But what made Haaland’s words even more powerful was the underlying message: a new era could be on the horizon at Manchester City. Since Kevin De Bruyne’s departure, City have struggled to find that same level of telepathic connection between midfield and attack. While players like Phil Foden and Julián Álvarez have stepped up, Haaland’s body language in recent games has shown frustration — the same kind of quiet intensity that often signals a striker who feels isolated.

Now, with the Norwegian openly expressing his admiration for Cherki, speculation is already running wild. Could Pep Guardiola be preparing a move for the French prodigy? According to transfer insiders, Manchester City have been keeping a close eye on Cherki since his Lyon days, and his recent rise at Dortmund may have reignited that interest.

Fans quickly flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with reactions ranging from excitement to disbelief:

• “If Haaland and Cherki play together, that’s going to be fireworks!”

• “The next De Bruyne-Haaland duo? Football isn’t ready!”

• “De Bruyne left, but maybe Cherki’s the new magician!”

Football analysts also weighed in. Former Manchester City star Micah Richards commented during post-match coverage: “Haaland doesn’t just hand out compliments like that. If he’s calling Cherki his dream partner, Pep’s probably already thinking about how to make it happen.”

What makes this moment even more emotional for fans is the clear sense of longing in Haaland’s tone. His partnership with De Bruyne was legendary — a perfect blend of precision and power. Now, hearing Haaland say he’s found someone who carries “a bit of magic like De Bruyne” feels like a new chapter — one filled with promise, ambition, and perhaps destiny.

Cherki, for his part, reacted modestly when asked about Haaland’s comment:

“It’s an honor. He’s one of the best strikers in the world. If he thinks that about me, it means I’m doing something right.”

Simple words — but ones that echoed confidence and maturity beyond his years.

As rumors swirl about Manchester City’s next moves, one thing is certain: Erling Haaland has spoken from the heart, and when a player of his stature points to a potential new teammate with such excitement, the football world listens. Whether Cherki joins City or not, this could mark the beginning of a powerful new connection — one that could redefine Haaland’s future and perhaps shape the next great partnership in world football.

For now, fans can only imagine: Haaland and Cherki, side by side — magic, goals, and chaos waiting to happen.