Nico O’Reilly wins PFA award and thanks Guardiola

Nico O’Reilly’s emergence at Manchester City has been recognised with the PFA young player award for last season’s Premier League campaign. The honour was presented at the players’ annual ceremony on Tuesday evening and reflects the midfielder’s growing importance within the squad.

The England international, who can operate in several midfield roles, gradually secured a place in City’s team. The award was decided by fellow players and marks the progress of the Manchester-born footballer, who wears the club’s number 33 shirt.

O’Reilly also used the ceremony to acknowledge Pep Guardiola’s role in his development. The Spanish coach left City at the end of the previous campaign, but O’Reilly said Guardiola’s belief in him had been central to his progress. He credited his former manager with helping him both on the pitch and in his personal development.

For O’Reilly, Guardiola’s influence remains closely tied to the player he has become. The midfielder said he would not be at his current level without the coach’s presence and expressed his gratitude for the support he received during their time together at City.