Pep Guardiola has told Rayan Cherki to learn from Lionel Messi after the French forward produced an outrageous assist during Manchester City 's 3-0 win over Sunderland .

Cherki's rabona cross laid on the third and final goal for Phil Foden as City moved to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal .

His piece of skill prompted further cheers from fans at the Etihad Stadium when it was replayed on the big screens.

It was the highlight of a man-of-the-match performance from Cherki, a £30 million ($40m) summer signing from Lyon .

"Rayan is an exceptional player," said Guardiola. "He is so young, he has a huge personality.

"In the final third he has something special. What I admire the most about Rayan is not the skills. I never saw Messi play a cross like he h

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