In Video: “I'm loving every minute of it!” | Nico O'Reilly reflects on his breakout season for Man City

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From Academy Wonderkid to First Team Star: A Conversation with Nico

Nico, thanks for sitting down. It’s a busy end to the season, and I’m glad we could catch up with you. I know your role in the squad has changed significantly in recent weeks and months.

Navigating the Transition from Academy to First Team

I guess at the start of the season, you weren’t getting much game time in the first team. But in the last few weeks and months, you’ve played a lot more, and you’re loving every minute of it. How’s that been for you?

Yeah, it’s been a busy period, but I’m loving the challenge. Training with the first team is intense, and it’s a huge jump from playing academy football, but we’re all here for a reason, and if the manager believes in you, he’ll give you the chance to prove yourself.

As a Manchester City fan who’s come through the academy, it’s surreal to play alongside players like Kevin De Bruyne, who you’ve idolized growing up. You’ve had to learn from them, and it’s been an incredible experience.

Inspirations from IDoling Heroes

I asked Nico about the players he’s admired at the club and who he’s learned from. "I’d say I looked up to Kevin de Bruyne a lot," he said. "We all know what he’s done for the club. I tried to learn from him a lot."

Taking Skills to New Positions

As a natural attacking midfielder, Nico changed positions to play left back under Pep Guardiola’s system. "I think crossing is something that’s helped me out a lot, even though I was attacking midfielder for most of my youth stages," he said. "I was always trying to get crosses into the box, so that’s transferred quite easily to left back."

Premier League Success and Scoring Goals

Nico has scored some spectacular goals through the academy, and it’s clear that his Premier League debut goal was an incredible feeling. "Every goal is amazing, but when you’re a Premier League goal scorer, it’s something special," he said.

Manager’s Confidence

I asked Nico about the conversations he had with Pep Guardiola during his journey. "One conversation stood out," he said. "He said, ‘We need players who can step up when called upon.’ I was waiting for my chance, and when it came, I was glad to help the team out as much as I could."

The End of Season Charge

With the FA Cup final and top-four finish within reach, Nico is disappointed that the season isn’t over yet. "We’ve got four important games left, and we’ll do everything we can to secure top four and win the FA Cup."