- Nico O’Reilly is in England’s World Cup squad
- He could be in the team to take on Croatia
- Huge progress made in a short space of time
Nico O’Reilly has looked back on how his Manchester City journey up to this point has led to him competing at the World Cup.
When England reached the Euro 2024 final, Nico O’Reilly had not even made his senior debut for Man City.
Yet only two years down the line, the talented left-back has been named in Thomas Tuchel’s squad, and could even start against Croatia.
Having scored twice in the Carabao Cup final, O’Reilly is already used to big occasions. Therefore, he will be ready for whatever challenges come his way during the next month.
Nico O’Reilly reacts to his Man City journey so far
Speaking to Man City’s official website, O’Reilly has revealed how his dream to play at the World Cup has come to life.
However, it would not have been possible so soon without him impressing under Pep Guardiola at Man City.
“Yes a little bit,” O’Reilly said when asked if he had to pinch himself at being selected for the Three Lions.
“Everything has happened so fast. I made my Premier League debut last January. Since then, I have gone on and achieved good things at City. It’s led me to here.”
O’Reilly unveils his World Cup aims
Starting as many matches as possible would be a huge step for O’Reilly, and getting his hands on the World Cup trophy would be even better.
But right now, he is just looking to breathe it all in and enjoy the experience, as advised by England captain Harry Kane.
“There are experienced players in the team that have been in situations like this before,” O’Reilly continued.
“They always give you bits of advice or little tips on what to do and what not to do and it really helps.
“I think the best advice has come from the skipper who said to take it all in and enjoy it and that’s what I am going to try and do.”
Can England win the World Cup?
Since making his debut, O’Reilly has won the Community Shield, Carabao Cup and FA Cup with Man City.
However, he is still yet to get his hands on one of the biggest pieces of silverware in football – the Premier League and Champions League trophies.
The 21 year old’s wait for those titles will have to continue for the best part of year at least, but he has the chance to do something just as special, if not even more so.
England are among the favourites to win the World Cup, having gone far in a number of recent international tournaments.
Do the Three Lions have what it takes to record a historic triumph? It seems a bit early to say, but Tuesday’s fixture against Croatia could be an indicator.
