England manager Gareth Southgate has handed a surprise first senior call-up to Nico O’Reilly following the injury withdrawal of Reece James ahead of the UEFA Nations League fixtures this week.
The 19-year-old Manchester City midfielder, who has been in exceptional form for City’s U23 side and recently made his senior debut under Pep Guardiola, joins the national team camp as Southgate seeks to freshen up his midfield options.
James’ withdrawal due to a recurring hamstring problem left a gap in the squad, and rather than call up a like-for-like defender, Southgate opted to bolster his creative ranks. O’Reilly’s inclusion marks the latest example of England’s push to integrate young, versatile talent into the setup ahead of next summer’s Euro 2026 qualifiers.
“Nico’s been outstanding at club level technically sharp, fearless, and tactically intelligent,” Southgate said. “He’s earned this opportunity, and we’re excited to see how he adapts to the senior environment.”
O’Reilly’s development has been closely monitored by City’s coaching staff, and insiders suggest Pep Guardiola has been impressed with his composure and decision-making. His ability to play both as a central midfielder and an advanced playmaker makes him a valuable asset for England’s evolving system.
This call-up could be a defining moment in O’Reilly’s young career, placing him among a growing wave of English youngsters breaking into the senior squad alongside Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer, and Anthony Gordon.
England are set to face Croatia and Poland in their upcoming fixtures, and while O’Reilly is unlikely to start, his presence in training could signal Southgate’s long-term vision for the national side.
⚽ Key Points:
- Reece James withdraws from the England squad due to injury.
- Nico O’Reilly, 19, earns his first senior call-up.
- Gareth Southgate praises O’Reilly’s creativity and maturity.
- England face Croatia and Poland this week.
- Another step in Southgate’s youth integration project.
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