Meet Nico O’Reilly, 19, who could replace Rodri and was denied Chelsea transfer as Man City feared ‘another Cole Palmer’ NICO O’REILLY did not expect to play a minute when he was selected in Manchester City’s squad for their four match pre-season tour of the USA in July.
He was denied a deadline day move to Chelsea, as City feared another 'Cole Palmer' situation and one of their academy lads starring in West London.
But three weeks later he had scored against Barcelona in Orlando - and also had a Community Shield winner's medal in his pocket after holding his own against five-time Champions League winner Casemiro against rivals Manchester United at Wembley.
However it raised some eyebrows as he has generally played further forward – even as a No10 or a false nine – while coming through the academy system at City.
That was more like the O’Reilly they knew at the City Football Academy – where he had a reputation for scoring eye-catching goals.
