Man City manager Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Nico O’Reilly following his recent switch to an attacking midfield role.
The 20-year-old seems to be thriving further forward after scoring a crucial brace for his club against Newcastle at the weekend. Asked for his thoughts on O’Reilly, Guardiola said he has been taken aback by how quickly he has developed his game:
“He’s played full back, played holding midfielder when Rodri was not there, now he’s in his position.”
“I know the pace he has. What a player. He has made an incredible step up and he has had a lot of minutes. But he deserves it.”
O’Reilly is playing in his favoured position
When Guardiola first decided to deploy the midfielder at left-back, many were wondering whether that would be the youngster’s permanent role in the first-team squad.
However, at youth level, O’Reilly had made his name as either a No.8 or No.10 and he is now thriving in what he’d classify as his best position.
Guardiola has deployed him there in eight games this campaign, with a return of three goals (including the two he scored at the weekend).
Man City won’t consider selling him
Rumours begun to surface in recent weeks that Chelsea may consider reviving their interest in the player. The Blues reportedly made an initial enquiry about his availability in January last year before O’Reilly signed a new contract.
However, after starting 31 matches in all competitions this campaign, as well as receiving his first caps at senior level for England, he now looks set to have a long career at the Etihad. Any bids from Chelsea or any other club are likely to get short shrift in the summer.
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