Rayan Cherki sends message to Man City title rivals as Pep Guardiola issues injury update

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Manchester City continued their strong run of form with a 2-0 win at home to Brentford in the Carabao Cup quarter-final.

Rayan Cherki was on the scoresheet again as Manchester City beat Brentford in the Carabao Cup(Image: Molly Darlington/Copa/Getty Images)

Everything you need to know after City beat Brentford

1. Manchester City secured a 2-0 win over Brentford to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals, with Rayan Cherki and Savinho leading the way in a heavily rotated side. While most players performed well, Nico Gonzalez and Phil Foden stood out for maintaining the team's high standard despite several other key players being rested. Read the full story - Man City player ratings vs Brentford with one 8/10 as Savinho scores
2. Cherki sent a clear message to City's title rivals by scoring a stunning goal and celebrating with Erling Haaland’s famous "lotus" pose. This victory suggests the Blues' squad depth is improving and proves they can still dominate games even when their star striker is on the bench. Read the full story - Rayan Cherki mimics Erling Haaland as Man City send Arsenal message
3. Pep Guardiola praised the team's victory but warned his players that everyone must stay "connected" and ready to play during a tough winter schedule. He emphasised the performance of the squad players was crucial for maintaining momentum as the club chase trophies in four different competitions. Read the full story - Pep Guardiola gives Man City Rayan Cherki warning after Carabao Cup victory
4. Guardiola confirmed after the full-time whistle Oscar Bobb was forced off with a hamstring issue. The severity of the injury is unknown but the City boss is hopeful it will not be too bad. Read the full story - Pep Guardiola gives early Man City injury update for West Ham
5. There are growing concerns City are playing a "dangerous game" by heavily relying on stars Nico O'Reilly and Gonzalez during an injury crisis. While the duo have been vital to City's recent six-game winning streak, their workload risks exhaustion or injury during the season's most critical period. Read the full story - Man City are playing a dangerous game with two stars - and Pep Guardiola knows it