RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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O’Reilly excited about the Maresca era at City
Nico O’Reilly is excited about the Enzo Maresca era at Manchester City as our Premier League season gets underway this weekend.
Maresca will take charge of his first top-flight game for City on Sunday with a 14:00 (UK) clash against Bournemouth at the Etihad.
O’Reilly can’t wait for the 2026/27 top-flight campaign to begin under the Italian and is in determined mood.
“We’re excited for it; we’re excited for the challenge,” he said.
“Enzo is a great manager, and he has his philosophies and we’re learning them.
“We all can’t wait to get started with him and the season now.
“We’re learning and adapting to his style.
“There’s always a lot of pressure being at a club like Manchester City. The goals here are to win everything. We can’t settle for anything less.
“I love the pressure; I thrive off it and I can’t wait for the season to get started. The goal is always to win.”
O’Reilly comes into the new season on the back of an impressive World Cup with England as the Three Lions made it to the semi-final stage before bowing out to eventual runners-up Argentina.
The 21-year-old admits the experience of playing in a major international tournament was a pinch-me moment in his career to date.
“It was a dream come true for me, and I enjoyed the experience so much,” he continued.
“It’s something I’ll cherish forever. I really enjoyed being in camp with the lads – it’s a great group.
“We didn’t manage to go all the way, but we gave it a good go and I really enjoyed it.”
O’Reilly, who made his debut in the 2024 Community Shield triumph over Manchester United, has gone from strength to strength over the past two years.
This last season, he scored a double as we lifted the Carabao Cup following victory over Arsenal, starred in our FA Cup final triumph over Chelsea as well as collecting Premier League Young Player of the Season and the Etihad Player of the Season awards.
Despite these accolades, O’Reilly insists his feet are firmly on the floor as he looks to continue his development this season and beyond.
“I had a good season personally last season, and it brought a lot of attention to my name,” he added.
“It’s not something I really focus on; I try to keep it on the side and block it out.
“My main focus is what I do on the pitch.”
O’Reilly not only boasts quality, he also has versatility and adaptability.
He can play in both defence and midfield, shining at either left-back or in the centre of the park.
Like any top professional, when pushed on his preferred role, he put the team ahead of any individual preferences.
“I’m not sure – I had a chat with Enzo and I told him, ‘I’m ready to play anywhere’.
“I’m able to adapt – whether that’s full-back or in midfield, I’m excited for the challenges and I’m ready to play.
“Wherever he needs to play, I’ll be ready to play there.”
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