Pep Guardiola Hails Nico O’Reilly as the Future of Manchester City

Pep Guardiola has praised young midfielder Nico O’Reilly, calling him a “top, top player” who can play in several positions and shine at important times.

GUARDIOLA’S STRONG PRAISE FOR O’REILLY

Guardiola spoke highly of O’Reilly‘s versatility, technical ability, and intelligence on the pitch. He highlighted the player’s skills in attacking areas and set pieces, plus his talent in one-on-one situations. Guardiola hopes O’Reilly will remain part of Manchester City‘s plans for many years to come. O’Reilly’s growth last season was impressive, especially playing as a left-back in emergencies and scoring the definitive goal in City’s FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth.

He also helped City with an important goal in their 2-0 win against Everton, qualifying City’s for the Champions League this season. This ability has contributed to O’Reilly’s tally of three goals and two assists in 12 appearances this season, marking his rising influence within the team.

MANCHESTER CITY’S TEAM AND PERFORMANCE

Manchester City finished the 2024/25 Premier League season in fourth place, ensuring their spot in this year’s Champions League. O’Reilly emerged as a key player, making significant contributions, including two goals and an assist in eight starts. This summer, City signed Rayan Ait-Nouri, who could push O’Reilly out of the left-back spot. Midfielders Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders make competition even tougher. However, recent reports confirm City will not allow O’Reilly to leave this summer, despite interest from several Premier League and Bundesliga teams. His versatility and progress are valued by both Guardiola and the club’s leadership.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR CITY AND O’REILLY

Manchester City’s next match is against Arsenal in the Premier League. City is mid-table with six points from four matches, three behind Arsenal who are last season’s runner-ups. With a packed team and new signings, O’Reilly will fight for his place, aiming to build on his end-of-season form. If he impresses Guardiola, he could become a regular starter this season, either in midfield or as cover on the left flank. Furthermore, O’Reilly will wear the number 33 jersey at Manchester City for the 2025/26 campaign, as his development will be closely monitored, with City fans eager to see if he can live up to his manager’s glowing words and become a permanent fixture of Manchester City’s team.