Cherki has made an encouraging impact since joining City from Lyon and was selected to start Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain at the Etihad Stadium.
The Frenchman’s technical ability and creativity have made him an exciting addition to Pep Guardiola’s former side, but Nasri believes his approach to games could sometimes hold him back.
Speaking on Canal+, the former Manchester City and France midfielder praised Cherki’s natural talent while identifying the area he feels requires improvement.
“It can cause problems. He has extraordinary talent. He is of Neymar’s calibre. He is a truly raw talent,” Nasri said.
“For me, he needs to get rid of this nonchalance, because from time to time it can be a hindrance at the very highest level.”
The comments came ahead of City’s meeting with Paris Saint-Germain, a demanding test for the hosts against the reigning European champions.
Cherki has shown that he can influence matches through his passing, close control and ability to create opportunities in tight spaces. Nasri’s assessment was not a dismissal of those qualities, but a warning that technical ability alone is not always enough to reach the top of the game.
At 23, Cherki is still developing his consistency in the Premier League after arriving from France. His challenge is to combine his natural flair with the intensity and discipline expected in the biggest matches.
City endured a difficult evening against PSG, losing 4-2 after conceding three times in the first half. Erling Haaland scored twice after the break, but Maghnes Akliouche restored the visitors’ three-goal advantage following a costly Gianluigi Donnarumma error.
The result underlined the level of competition Cherki faces as he establishes himself in English football. Nasri’s remarks suggest the midfielder has the tools to become an elite player, but must ensure his work without the ball and his application match his ability in possession.
Cherki’s talent is not in question. The task now is to turn it into consistent performances against the strongest opposition.