Nico O’Reilly believes there are two tasks before Manchester City players to stand a chance of winning the Premier League title ahead of Arsenal.
According to the young midfielder and defender, the Cityzens must win all the remaining games and need to score many goals, claiming that the battle could be decided on the final day of the season.
City sit six points behind the league leaders, although they hold the advantage of having two matches in hand.
Their immediate focus turns to a crucial trip to Everton, where a win on Monday would sustain the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side at the summit.
A run of three consecutive victories has reignited belief within Pep Guardiola’s squad, not least a significant win against Arsenal that has helped shape the momentum of the closing weeks.
That sequence has strengthened confidence among the players, who are intent on maintaining their charge as the campaign nears its conclusion.
O’Reilly, who has impressed with his adaptability across defence and midfield this season, says the squad remains firmly focused on their own performances rather than external factors.
“We’re confident in ourselves. There are still a few games to go and it could go down to the last game,” he said per club official website
“We’re going to try and win every game and score as much as we can. We’re going into every game trying to put a good performance in and win.”
Momentum building in decisive weeks
City briefly climbed to the top of the table on goals scored following their victory over Burnley, but scheduling demands — including their FA Cup commitments — have since allowed Arsenal to regain control of first place.
While the Gunners now possess the advantage of points already secured, there is no sense within the City camp of altering their approach.
Instead, the emphasis remains on consistency and execution in each remaining fixture.
O’Reilly’s emergence has been one of the notable elements of City’s season. The 21-year-old initially established himself in the back line before transitioning into midfield roles, showcasing both composure and tactical awareness beyond his years.
Despite his growing reputation and the prospect of individual recognition, his attention remains fixed on collective objectives.
“I’m feeling good and positive and ready for the last few weeks. Everyone is feeling good and we’re excited for the last few weeks of the season,” he said.
Focus on the present as recognition looms
O’Reilly’s performances have placed him among the leading candidates for young player of the year honours, underlining his importance to City’s campaign.
His development has also attracted attention at international level, with suggestions that he could be in contention for a place in England’s World Cup plans.
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However, the midfielder is keen to keep his focus firmly on the immediate challenges ahead rather than individual accolades or future opportunities.
“It would be a great achievement but there are still a few games to go and we’ll see what happens,” he said.
“I just need to knuckle down and keep working hard.
“With all the games and how intense it is, I don’t think there’s much time to reflect yet. I think that’s when we have time off.”
With crucial fixtures still to come and little margin for error, O’Reilly’s belief that the title race could stretch to the very end reflects the finely balanced nature of the contest.
