Photo: DHSgov / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
Manchester City midfielder Nico O'Reilly has expressed his enthusiasm for the Enzo Maresca era ahead of City's Premier League opener against Bournemouth at the Etihad on Sunday at 14:00 (UK).
"We're excited for it; we're excited for the challenge," O'Reilly said. "Enzo is a great manager, and he has his philosophies and we're learning them. We all can't wait to get started with him and the season now."
The 21-year-old was candid about the demands of representing a club of City's stature. "There's always a lot of pressure being at a club like Manchester City. The goals here are to win everything. We can't settle for anything less. I love the pressure; I thrive off it and I can't wait for the season to get started."
O'Reilly arrives in the new campaign with momentum from the World Cup, where England reached the semi-finals before losing to runners-up Argentina. "It was a dream come true for me, and I enjoyed the experience so much," he said. "It's something I'll cherish forever."
The midfielder had a strong domestic campaign last season, scoring twice in the Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal, contributing to the FA Cup final win over Chelsea, and collecting both the Premier League Young Player of the Season and Etihad Player of the Season awards.
Despite the recognition, O'Reilly said individual attention is not his priority. "I had a good season personally last season, and it brought a lot of attention to my name. It's not something I really focus on. My main focus is what I do on the pitch."
O'Reilly, who can operate at left-back or in central midfield, said he has made his availability clear to Maresca. "I had a chat with Enzo and I told him, 'I'm ready to play anywhere'. Wherever he needs me to play, I'll be ready to play there."