Midfield Exodus Leaves Maresca Scrambling
The summer exodus at the Etihad shows no sign of slowing. With Bernardo Silva, Rodri, and now Tijjani Reijnders all heading for the exit, Enzo Maresca is suddenly looking at a midfield bare of options.
Nico Gonzalez's future is also up in the air, with David Ornstein reporting that Newcastle United are exploring a move for the Spanish midfielder. If he goes, City's engine room looks dangerously thin.
Help could come from an unexpected source: Nico O'Reilly. The academy graduate made his name last season at left-back, but his history suggests he could be the answer in the middle of the park.
A Return to His Roots?
O'Reilly spent his entire academy career in midfield before being deployed at left-back, where he enjoyed a breakout 2025-26 campaign. He also filled in midfield on several occasions under Pep Guardiola last term.
With Josko Gvardiol and Rayan Ait-Nouri both capable of playing left-back, moving O'Reilly into midfield would give City a stronger mix in the centre of the pitch. It might also solve a problem that has been building all summer.
City begin their Premier League campaign this Sunday against Bournemouth at the Etihad. Elliot Anderson looks a certain starter, and Mateo Kovacic has started all four preseason matches, but beyond that, the midfield picture is far from clear.