Within 20 minutes of coming on, Nico O’Reilly assisted two crucial goals including one for Erling Haaland.
Image credit: Manchester City
Manchester City’s decision to hold onto Nico O’Reilly during the winter transfer window may prove to be one of their most crucial moves.
The 20-year-old academy star was a target for Chelsea in January, but City refused to make the same mistake they did with Cole Palmer, who left for the London club 18 months ago.
Unlike Palmer, who departed without a buyback clause, O’Reilly remains firmly in City’s plans.
Impact on Manchester City’s FA Cup Run
O’Reilly’s importance to City has been undeniable. He played a key role throughout their FA Cup campaign, demonstrating his ability to step up in decisive moments.
His first major impact came in the third round against Salford City, where he scored his debut goal in an 8-0 rout.
In the next round, he started against Leyton Orient, playing nearly a full half before being replaced by Kevin De Bruyne, who went on to secure victory.
The fifth round against Plymouth Argyle further showcased O’Reilly’s talent.
After City fell behind at the Etihad, he equalized with a well-placed header in first-half stoppage time, courtesy of a De Bruyne assist.
He wasn’t done there—15 minutes from time, he scored again, completing his brace and ensuring City’s progression to the quarter-finals.
Game-Changer Against Bournemouth
Despite starting on the bench in the FA Cup quarter-final against Bournemouth, O’Reilly wasted no time making an impact when introduced.
⚽️ 3 goals
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 30, 2025
🅰️ 2 assists
🏅 2 POTMs
Nico O'Reilly in the FA Cup this season ✨ pic.twitter.com/IuGFe1rjMe
Within 20 minutes of coming on, he assisted two crucial goals—one for Erling Haaland and another for Omar Marmoush—sealing City’s place in the semi-finals.
Pep Guardiola has been vocal about the club’s reluctance to part with promising academy talents like O’Reilly, citing the squad’s injury concerns and the need for depth.
“We are not able to loan or sell players right now—we have had a lot of injury problems. We need O’Reilly, [James] McAtee, [Divin] Mubama—we have a lot of games and we need them,” Guardiola explained.
O’Reilly’s Growing Reputation
His performances in the FA Cup have placed him among the top performers in the competition.
With three goals to his name, O’Reilly ranks among the tournament’s top scorers, trailing only Josh Magennis (six) and Ricky-Jade Jones (four).
His two assists also place him just behind a handful of players, including his City teammate Jack Grealish.
