Rayan Cherki 'hungry like crazy' to win World Cup as France prepare for last-16 showdown

Rayan Cherki has issued a defiant battle cry as France gear up for their World Cup round of 16 clash against Paraguay, insisting the squad is more motivated than ever. Despite recent scrutiny regarding his relationship with manager Didier Deschamps, the Manchester City playmaker remains focused on the upcoming knockout match.

The 22-year-old spoke out via a video shared by the French national team to rally support ahead of the round of 16 clash. "This qualification it's magnificent we are in the round of 16 of the World Cup," Cherki said. "We are hungry, we're very very hungry. We are in the final phase of the World Cup. Whoever wins stays, whoever loses have a good holiday. Right now I think people probably don't see it but we're hungry like crazy."

An incident involving Cherki led to speculation he was unhappy with his peripheral role. However, the French staff have not held the gesture against him. Those close suggest it was self-frustration rather than defiance. The midfielder has reportedly been dealing with a difficult off-field situation.

Despite his status as one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League, Cherki has found playing time hard to come by with Les Bleus. The former Lyon player has yet to make a start in the tournament, falling behind the likes of Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola in the pecking order.

Manager Didier Deschamps remains focused on his squad's collective strength. "Players might be disappointed because they're not playing enough or at all, there might be frustrations but the collective strength is paramount," Deschamps said.

France travel to Philadelphia to face Paraguay with a quarter-final spot at stake. With Kylian Mbappe leading the line, France seek a third world title, and Cherki's hunger could prove crucial to their success.