- Nico O’Reilly discussed Man City’s FA Cup final
- The youngster wants to move on from last year’s hurt
- City face Chelsea at Wembley this weekend
Nico O’Reilly has already enjoyed one major Wembley moment this season, but the Manchester City youngster now has the chance to make it two.
The 21-year-old has had a breakthrough campaign under Pep Guardiola, earning regular senior opportunities and playing an important role in City’s cup runs.
O’Reilly scored twice as City won the Carabao Cup at Wembley earlier this season. Now, he is preparing for another major occasion at the national stadium.
Man City face Chelsea in the FA Cup final on Saturday, giving Guardiola’s side the chance to end their recent frustration in the competition.
After winning the FA Cup in 2023, City lost the following two finals, and O’Reilly has admitted that last season’s disappointment is still a source of motivation.
Nico O’Reilly wants Man City to use FA Cup final hurt
Speaking to The FA, O’Reilly said that the competition is one of the biggest in English football. The 21-year-old also admitted that Chelsea will be a tough opponent.
The Blues lost at home against Man City last time, but they also held out for a draw in January at the Etihad.
“The FA Cup is a huge competition in English football. It’s such a big game, and we know Chelsea will be tough opposition,” O’Reilly said.
The Englishman added: “But we were here in this position last year and couldn’t quite get the win, so we know how it feels to lose here. It’s a bad feeling, and it hurts, so we’ll try and get the job done this time.”
O’Reilly admitted that last year’s defeat didn’t bring back positive feelings. Crystal Palace won the FA Cup final last campaign after Eberechi Eze scored one against the Citizens.
O’Reilly has already proven his Wembley value
O’Reilly scored two goals against Arsenal to help City win the Carabao Cup this season. He had the most shots on target alongside Bukayo Saka (2), converting 100% of them.
The left-back was also one of the most active defenders on the pitch that day as he ended the game with the most tackles (5).
O’Reilly also became the second player to score both goals in a 2-0 win in a League Cup final. The first to do so was Martin Chivers for Tottenham Hotspur in 1971.
O’Reilly will be looking forward to replicating his Carabao Cup performance
With Man City facing a tough end-of-season run-in, players like O’Reilly will be carrying the pressure to perform.
The Sky Blues have only won one trophy this season and are hoping to win a domestic treble. However, the Premier League title is still out of control following Arsenal’s three wins in a row.
Regardless, the Carabao Cup winners can still win a domestic cup double if they manage to outclass Chelsea on Saturday. Likewise, O’Reilly will be hoping to make an impact at Wembley for the second time this season.
