Manchester City midfielder Nico O’Reilly has been named the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Young Player of the Year for the 2025/26 season.
The 21-year-old was announced as the winner at the 53rd annual PFA Awards ceremony in Manchester on Tuesday, August 25, after being voted for by his fellow professional players.
O’Reilly emerged ahead of five other nominees amongst Manchester City teammate Rayan Cherki, Arsenal youngster Max Dowman, Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi, Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha. The PFA had announced the six-player shortlist in June.
The award caps a remarkable breakthrough campaign for O’Reilly, who became an important member of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad during the season.
He made 53 appearances across all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing six assists, according to Manchester City. The academy graduate also demonstrated his versatility by operating both in midfield and at left-back.
O’Reilly played a particularly prominent role in City’s cup campaigns. He scored both goals in the club’s 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final and also featured in Manchester City’s 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Chelsea.
His performances earned him further recognition during the season. In May, he was voted the Premier League Young Player of the Season, becoming the fourth Manchester City player to receive the award since its introduction in 2019.
The PFA Young Player of the Year award is decided through votes from professional footballers, with players recognising the outstanding young performers from the season.
O’Reilly’s latest honour adds to a series of individual achievements during his first full season as an established member of City’s senior squad.
The Manchester-born player, who came through City’s academy, also made his senior England debut during the campaign, further underlining his rapid rise.
Despite Manchester City finishing second in the Premier League behind Arsenal, O’Reilly’s performances made him one of the standout young players in English football during the 2025/26 season.
His PFA award marks another significant milestone in what has been a breakthrough season for the versatile City academy graduate.
