New Role on the Horizon?
Nico O'Reilly has become a first-team regular at Manchester City, winning the Premier League's Young Player of the Season award during his breakout campaign. He rose to prominence at left-back for both club and England at the 2026 World Cup. But that might not be where he stays.
Heading into a new era under Enzo Maresca, a positional shift could be on the cards.
Deep at Left-Back
O'Reilly is arguably City's first-choice left-back after Josko Gvardiol's serious injury last January, which kept him out for a large chunk of the season. Rayan Ait-Nouri also struggled to establish himself in his first season at the Etihad. Those factors, plus O'Reilly's irrepressible form, made him a mainstay under Pep Guardiola.
Now, City have three quality options at left-back for the 2026-27 campaign. If Gvardiol returns fit, he's another. And given how Maresca uses his full-backs, Ait-Nouri could play a more prominent role too.
Back to His Roots
That depth could free up O'Reilly to move into midfield — his natural position. He came through City's academy as an attacking midfielder and played alongside Rodri and Bernardo Silva in the engine room last season when required. He is a midfielder by trade.
Physically, his strength and size could be hugely important as the Premier League evolves. Playing him in midfield is a bonafide option for Maresca to consider.
His late attacking runs from left-back remain a major weapon. But O'Reilly is destined to be a full-time midfielder. It could happen next season. City are blessed with the left-back options to facilitate this shift.