It was after 11:30 PM when Pep Guardiola finally took a seat in the media theater at Santiago Bernabeu to share his insights on Manchester City‘s 3-0 loss to Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie. Looking visibly worn out and frustrated, he anticipated queries about his team selection and was prepared to respond.
“How many times has Nico O’Reilly played left-back this season? How many times?” he retorted sharply to one journalist.
The question, though justified considering Guardiola’s unexpected choice to position O’Reilly at left-back instead of his usual central midfield role, elicited a defensive response. While Guardiola didn’t articulate it directly, the atmosphere suggested he implied that in an ideal scenario, he would have two O’Reillys—one in defense and another in midfield.
Regardless, Guardiola was keen to reiterate his awareness of the young talent hailing from northeast Manchester.
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As City looks to score in the second leg, Guardiola decided to keep O’Reilly on the bench to favor attacking players instead. However, with the season at a crucial juncture following their Champions League exit—starting with Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Arsenal—it looks like O’Reilly will return to the lineup, aiming for a trophy to cap off the campaign.
The more significant question for Guardiola is whether to utilize O’Reilly in defense or midfield.
From his beginnings in the academy to becoming a pivotal member of the squad, O’Reilly’s journey has been meteoric—potentially earning him a spot in the England squad for the World Cup.
“I’m very pleased,” says O’Reilly when reflecting on the past year. “I’m happy with how things are progressing.” His response, typically modest, aligns with his reserved—sometimes shy—nature.
“Initially, during the first few matches, it felt new,” he continues. “Going from 200 spectators [at youth games] to thousands is a significant change. As the games progress, you gain familiarity, comfort, and confidence, and it becomes manageable.”
O’Reilly’s impact has been considerable; he has already appeared in 43 matches across all competitions this season, leading the under-20 players in minutes played in the Premier League.
Having made his full league debut in April 2025, O’Reilly progressed so rapidly that he started in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace by May and scored against Real Madrid in December during the Champions League group stage.
His performances caught the attention of Thomas Tuchel, leading to his first full international call-up in October, and he could potentially be England’s starting left-back come the World Cup this summer, despite having played that position only last season.
“It was unexpected,” he recalls. “Just one session before the Salford game last season, Pep told me, ‘You’re playing there tomorrow.’ I did well and gradually started playing there more frequently.”
“This season, I began transitioning back into midfield as well, and I enjoyed it. It’s a great challenge. Ultimately, it’s up to the manager to decide where I’m most effective. As long as I’m playing, I’m content.”
Adapting to new roles isn’t the only challenge O’Reilly has faced. A long-time member of City’s setup since age eight, he experienced a rocky road to the first team.
During his Under-16 years, growth pains in his legs hindered his development for over six months. When he reached the Under-18s, he was held back for a year instead of being moved up to the Under-23s, and an ankle injury that eventually required surgery sidelined him for most of the 2023-24 season.
In January 2025, Chelsea showed significant interest, but City rejected their approach due to Chelsea’s unwillingness to include a buy-back option. Since then, O’Reilly’s development has made it clear that City has no intention of letting him go anytime soon. In September, the club awarded O’Reilly a new five-year contract, ensuring he will remain at the Etihad until 2030.
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“When I received the news, it felt incredible,” he noted. “I was thrilled and couldn’t wait to sign the contract. This season has been fantastic for me, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.”
In the official statement on City’s website, O’Reilly took the time to express gratitude to his mother, Holli, for the “sacrifices” she made during his upbringing in Collyhurst. A true Manchester local, he even has the city’s area code, 0161, tattooed on his arm.
“That’s where I grew up, in Manchester,” he shared. “It reflects who I am today. My upbringing in that area was enjoyable; I played football with my friends every day. It was a great environment to grow up in.”
“I’ve recently moved out of Collyhurst, but it was a wonderful place. I loved living there, although I’m now a bit further out. However, being close to my family is great—they support me and attend every game, keeping me grounded. They’re enjoying this journey with me.”
“I have a younger sister who comes to every match and is a huge City fan. She’s really passionate about football now.”
Having been a City supporter growing up, O’Reilly never had the chance to see his team play at Wembley when he was younger. This weekend, however, he will celebrate his 21st birthday on Saturday, right before competing in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal on Sunday.
“Growing up watching City, attending games, and seeing them perform in these competitions—winning finals and aspiring to be in that position—is very special,” he reflected. “I didn’t get to experience any finals when I was younger, only viewing them on TV. But now, being part of these moments is a huge achievement.”