O’Reilly: It’s a dream come true to be playing in the World Cup

In partnership with

Manchester City F.C.

·14 June 2026

O’Reilly: It’s a dream come true to be playing in the World Cup

Nico O’Reilly has spoken of the excitement he feels heading into his first ever World Cup.

O’Reilly is part of Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad for the finals in USA, Canada and Mexico alongside fellow Blues James Trafford and Marc Guéhi.

OneFootball Videos

After warm-up victories over New Zealand and Costa Rica, the Three Lions begin the tournament proper this Wednesday with an opening Group L clash in Texas against Croatia, kick-off 21:00 (UK).

O’Reilly is relishing the opportunity to take part in a competition loved across the globe.

“It’s unbelievable,” he said.

“It’s a dream come true. It’s something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid and for it to come true now, obviously I’m still young, I can’t wait to get started.”

O’Reilly has been a revelation for City this past campaign, winning Etihad Player of the Season with the highlight undoubtedly his brace that helped secure the Carabao Cup final triumph over Arsenal.

However, it’s easy to forget the 21-year-old only made his Premier League debut 18 months ago so his ascent has been rapid.

It’s a fact not lost on the versatile starlet.

“Yes a little bit,” when asked if he had to pinch himself.

“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 is one of nine Lions who will be competing in their first World Cup this summer alongside Trafford, Tino Livramento, Djed Spence, Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah, Elliot Anderson, Noni Madueke and Morgan Rogers.

However, there’s undoubted experience in the group too.

Harry Kane is captaining England at his third World Cup, equalling the record set by Billy Wright in 1950, 1954 and 1958.

Jordan Pickford, John Stones and Marcus Rashford will also be appearing at their third World Cup, while Jordan Henderson will be making a record-equalling fourth appearance in the finals.

O’Reilly is delighted to be amongst such knowhow as he looks to make an impact on the global stage.

“There are experienced players in the team that have been in situations like this before.

“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.”