Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided an update on Nico O'Reilly's condition following his injury against Everton at the weekend.
The 20-year-old has been one of the standout young figures in Guardiola's squad this season, continuing his rapid rise from academy prospect to first-team regular, and was given another opportunity to impress during Saturday's Premier League clash against David Moyes' side at the Etihad Stadium.
However, concern arose late in the match, which ended in a 2-0 win for City, when O'Reilly discovered a problem, prompting Pep Guardiola and his coaching staff to recall the midfielder in the dying minutes.
The England international has produced a consistent performance this season, demonstrating his composure, tactical awareness and adaptability – qualities that have earned him significant praise from Guardiola and his teammates, as well as a first call-up to Thomas Tuchel's team.
Having only recently signed a new and improved five-year contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2030, Manchester City have made it clear that they have long-term faith in Nico O'Reilly's potential and growing influence in the first team.
Speaking after City's 2-0 win over David Moyes' Everton on Saturday afternoon, Pep Guardiola questioned the injury that forced O'Reilly off the pitch during the final exchange.
“I think it's a blow,” Guardiola told reporters at the Etihad Stadium. He continued: “We'll see, but I don't think it will be dangerous.”
Pep Guardiola's words will come as a relief to City fans who have already seen several key players struggle with fitness issues during a busy fixture schedule. O'Reilly's ability to play in multiple positions made him an invaluable player in the tactical system and any stint on the sidelines would have been a setback.
As Manchester City's calendar gets busier ahead of upcoming Premier League, Champions League and League Cup fixtures, Nico O'Reilly's availability will be closely monitored by the club's medical team in the coming days.
However, early signs suggest he could recover quickly and be in contention for Manchester City's next trip to Spain to face Villarreal in the third round of European competition.
