Enzo Maresca gets Rayan Cherki wrong again as stats expose Man City issue

Maresca substituted Cherki at half-time despite stats showing he creates chances and scores most in second halves; he had 0.39 xG against Villa, third-best on the pitch.

Manchester City's Rayan Cherki was withdrawn at half-time during the match against Aston Villa, a decision that may have cost the team. The French midfielder had picked up a yellow card by the break, prompting manager Enzo Maresca to make the change.

However, statistics suggest the substitution was premature. Cherki has recorded six of his eight goal contributions this season in the second half of matches, indicating he grows into games as they progress. Against Villa, he posted strong numbers despite the early exit: 0.39 xG (third-best on the pitch behind Josko Gvardiol's 0.45 and Erling Haaland's 0.4), and only Elliott Anderson created more chances for City.

This marks the fourth time in 11 competitive appearances that Cherki has been taken off at half-time, raising questions about whether Maresca is repeatedly making the same tactical error by not giving the midfielder time to impose himself in the second half.