Nico O’Reilly Wins PFA Young Player of the Year Award

Manchester City midfielder Nico O’Reilly has been named the Professional Footballers’ Association Young Player of the Year for the 2025/26 season.

The 21-year-old received the award at the 53rd annual PFA Awards ceremony in Manchester on Tuesday after being selected ahead of five other nominees.

O’Reilly’s victory caps a breakthrough campaign in which he established himself as an important member of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad.

O’Reilly beats strong competition

The England international emerged ahead of City team-mate Rayan Cherki, Arsenal youngster Max Dowman, Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi, Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha.

The PFA Young Player of the Year is decided through voting by professional footballers, making O’Reilly’s success a significant recognition from his fellow players.

His award follows an impressive season in which he featured 53 times across all competitions and contributed directly to 15 goals.

Versatility proved key to breakthrough season

O’Reilly's campaign was notable for his versatility, with the midfielder also impressing when deployed at left-back.

His performances earned further recognition when he was named Premier League Young Player of the Season, highlighting his emergence among English football's leading young talents.

The midfielder also played a decisive role in Manchester City’s domestic campaign, scoring both goals in their 2-0 Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal.

Another major award for Manchester City

O’Reilly’s PFA success adds to Manchester City’s strong history in the Young Player of the Year category.

The club has previously produced winners including Leroy Sané, Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden.

For O’Reilly, the latest honour represents another major milestone in a season that has seen him move from promising youngster to an increasingly important figure in Guardiola’s side.

Key Takeaways

• Nico O’Reilly won the PFA Young Player of the Year award for 2025/26.
• The Manchester City midfielder beat five other nominees.
• He made 53 appearances across competitions and contributed directly to 15 goals.
• O’Reilly impressed in both midfield and at left-back.
• He also won the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.
• He scored both goals in Manchester City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup final win over Arsenal.

SportsLigue