Meet Rayan Cherki’s Parents: Fabrice Amsellem and Abla Cherki

Rayan Cherki, the prodigious French footballer, has become one of the brightest young talents in world football, admired for his dazzling footwork, creativity, and flair on the pitch.

Born Mathis Rayan Cherki on August 17, 2003, in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement, France, he grew up in the nearby village of Pusignan, surrounded by a football-driven environment that shaped his passion from an early age.

Encouraged by his father, Cherki began playing football at just six years old, honing his ambidextrous dribbling skills through casual family games.

By 2009, he was already playing with AS Saint-Priest, and soon after, he joined the Olympique Lyonnais youth academy at the age of seven. His natural ability and creativity quickly stood out, making him one of Lyon’s most exciting prospects.

Of Algerian and Italian descent, Cherki’s heritage reflects the diverse backgrounds of his parents. His father, Fabrice Amsellem (also known as Fabio), of Algerian-Jewish and Italian descent, was an amateur footballer who provided crucial guidance in his son’s development. His mother, Abla Cherki, originally from Biskra, Algeria, emphasized humility, discipline, and strong community values.

Cherki is also believed to be a practicing Muslim, having taken part in Ramadan activities, including volunteering at a local mosque to distribute food, and has spoken about the influence of Muslim culture on his lifestyle and decisions.

The third of five brothers, Rayan comes from a close-knit family. His older brother, Katib Cherki, was once trained with clubs such as Évian-TG and Nîmes. His younger brothers include Adame Cherki, who is pursuing a career in sports marketing, and Eden Cherki, who is currently developing within Lyon’s academy system.

Now a rising star at Olympique Lyonnais and frequently mentioned in discussions about the future of French football, Cherki’s success is rooted not only in his raw talent but also in the unwavering support of his family.

Fabrice Amsellem

Fabrice Amsellem, Rayan Cherki‘s father, has played a pivotal role in his son’s development both as an athlete and as an individual. His presence in Rayan’s life has been a constant source of encouragement and guidance.

Born and raised in France, Fabrice has roots that trace back to Algeria, reflecting the multicultural heritage that Rayan proudly carries. Fabrice recognized Rayan’s extraordinary talent early on, fostering his love for football from a young age.

Growing up in the Lyon suburb of Bron, Rayan was immersed in a football-crazy environment, and Fabrice ensured that his son had the resources and opportunities to hone his skills. Whether it was enrolling Rayan in local youth clubs or supporting his entry into Olympique Lyonnais’ prestigious academy, Fabrice’s commitment to his son’s dreams has been unwavering.

Beyond logistics, Fabrice has been a steady influence, helping Rayan navigate the pressures of being a young football prodigy. In interviews, Rayan has often credited his father for instilling in him a strong work ethic and a grounded mindset, qualities that have helped him stay focused amid the hype surrounding his career.

Abla Cherki

Abla Cherki, Rayan’s mother, is the emotional cornerstone of the family. Like Fabrice, Abla’s heritage is deeply rooted in Algeria, and she has played a significant role in keeping Rayan connected to his cultural heritage.

Abla’s nurturing presence has provided Rayan with the stability needed to pursue his ambitions while maintaining a sense of humility. Her impact on Rayan’s life is undeniable. She has been a source of unconditional love and support, ensuring that Rayan remains balanced despite the demands of professional football.

Abla’s role extends beyond the sidelines; she has helped Rayan stay true to his values, emphasizing the importance of family, education, and respect.

Rayan’s close-knit family dynamic, with Abla at its heart, has been crucial in keeping him grounded. In a world where young athletes often face immense pressure, Abla’s warmth and guidance have provided Rayan with a safe haven, allowing him to focus on his craft without losing sight of who he is.