A Manchester City diamond is attracting interest from other clubs but City mustn’t let him go

Nico O'Reilly emerged as a success story for Manchester City during the latter stages of the 2024/25 season, impressing while playing out of position at left-back and demonstrating clear potential for a long and successful career. His strong form, talent, and potential have now attracted significant interest from multiple clubs in the Premier League and Bundesliga, making it crucial for Manchester City to retain him this summer to avoid losing such a promising young player.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that O'Reilly is drawing strong interest from Bundesliga and Premier League clubs, with several prepared to offer him regular first-team football—a key priority for the young midfielder. Romano did not specify the names of the interested clubs, but the opportunity for consistent playing time is a central factor in the emerging transfer interest.

O'Reilly, naturally an attacking midfielder, seized his chance during City's rebuild by making a seamless transition to left-back late last season, showcasing his adaptability and potential to develop into a top player. However, he requires regular playing opportunities to fulfill his potential, and while he might get minutes at left-back next season, his long-term development hinges on moving back to his preferred midfield role to leverage his talent, eye for goal, size, and athleticism.

Integrating O'Reilly into Manchester City's crowded midfield presents a challenge, as the squad includes established players like Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Rayan Cherki, Ilkay Gundogan, Mateo Kovacic, Nico, Rodri, and Tijjani Reijnders. This intense competition for minutes under Pep Guardiola could prompt O'Reilly to seek opportunities elsewhere to secure playing time in midfield.

Despite the midfield logjam, Manchester City cannot afford to let O'Reilly leave this summer, given his tantalizing talent and physical attributes. The club has seen other young players depart for more playing time in recent seasons, and retaining O'Reilly is vital to prevent adding him to that list.