Nico O’Reilly says he is determined to build on a breakthrough season by scoring more goals, creating assists and winning further trophies after being named the 2026 PFA Young Player of the Year.
The Manchester City player enjoyed a rapid rise during the campaign, winning two trophies at club level before representing his country at the World Cup. His side did not reach the final stages of that tournament, but O’Reilly said he remained proud of his achievements.
“Yes, I had a wonderful seasoneverything happened so quickly. I’m incredibly proud of what I achieved. At club level, we won two trophies, and I also represented my country at the World Cup. So I’m absolutely delighted with how it all turned out. Of course, I was disappointed that we didn’t go all the way in the World Cup, but overall, I’m really very proud.”
The award has increased O’Reilly’s determination to improve rather than allowing him to become satisfied with his progress. He said his focus is on raising his standards through hard work and daily training.
“Yes, hopefully bigger and better things. I want to take my game to the next level. That’s what I’m always trying to dotraining hard every day, constantly improving. Yes, that’s my goal and my ambition.”
O’Reilly rejected the idea that his success had been inevitable. Instead, he pointed to the importance of taking advantage when opportunities came his way, while acknowledging that luck had also played a part.
“Absolutely not. As I said, it all happened so quickly. There were some opportunities, and a bit of luck involved. I seized those opportunities. It’s been an amazing season, one I’m deeply proud of. Going into this new season, I’ll try to do even better and achieve greater things.”
O’Reilly praises Guardiola and Enzo
The 2026 award comes after a period of significant change at club level. O’Reilly spoke highly of Pep Guardiola’s decade at the club and said he had benefited from working under the former manager.
“Yes, Guardiola was at the club for 10 years and did an excellent jobhe’s truly an amazing, legendary coach. It was great to learn so much from him. Since Enzo arrived, everything has been very positive from day one. Our training sessions are intense and demanding. He’s very particular, very strict, and at the same time extremely passionate. He’s a very good coach, so we’re all eager to start the new season.”
O’Reilly also believes a new team-mate has settled quickly and can strengthen the squad. He has already played alongside the player at the World Cup and expects the relationship to develop further at club level.
“Yes, he’s integrating very well. He’s a very good player, and I’ve already played alongside him at the World Cup. I think he’ll fit in perfectly with us and bring significant improvement and support to the team.”
The Premier League title race could be less predictable in the coming season, O’Reilly added, with several teams strengthening during the summer transfer window.
“It’s certainly possible. There are several strong teams in the league, and the Premier League has seen many strong new signings this summer. Yes, the competition could well become more open and unpredictable. But we’ll have to wait and see.”
Looking ahead, O’Reilly has set out a clear list of ambitions: contribute more in attack, continue playing for his country and add to his medal collection.
“Yes, I want to score goals, provide assists, continue representing my country in international competitions, and win more trophies. That’s all I desire.”
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