O’Reilly Replaces Injured James in England Squad for October Fixtures

Manchester City’s 20-year-old earns first senior call-up after Reece James ruled out

Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly has received his first senior England call-up after Reece James withdrew from the squad due to injury.

James suffered a shin gash during Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Liverpool and has been ruled out “following medical assessments.” His absence leaves Tottenham’s Djed Spence as the only recognised right-back in the squad for upcoming matches against Wales (9 October) and Latvia (14 October).

O’Reilly, who has impressed for City this season, steps up from the England U21s and adds versatility to Thomas Tuchel’s defence, having featured at both left and right-back.

“Buzzing With the News” – O’Reilly on First Senior Call-Up

The 20-year-old described his emotions to BBC Radio 5 Live:

“A bit shocked and very surprised… but over the moon, buzzing with the news.”

Originally a number 10 in City’s academy, O’Reilly has been repositioned as a full-back by manager Pep Guardiola. Despite limited senior experience, he’s earned nine appearances already this season, including a key role in the Club World Cup squad.

“At first I found the switch pretty difficult… I’ve never really done one-v-one defending before, but I’m learning and enjoying it now,” he added.

England Short at Right-Back

O’Reilly’s promotion raises eyebrows due to his left-back status, yet it’s a tactical move by Tuchel, who now has just one natural right-back—Djed Spence—in the squad.

Spence, interestingly, was called up as a left-back in September. With England facing two matches in quick succession, Tuchel will likely rely on O’Reilly’s positional flexibility.

Reward for Breakthrough at City

This call-up is seen as a reward for O’Reilly’s rapid development and consistent form with the Premier League champions.

Standing well over 6ft, he fits Tuchel’s preference for physically strong, high-intensity runners. His defensive numbers are elite: he leads City for tackles per 90 minutes and ranks high in blocks, interceptions, and possession recoveries.

“He’s gone from academy prospect to starting left-back at the Etihad within months. Now he’s in the senior England squad—O’Reilly’s rise is phenomenal,” noted one club insider.

A Versatile Asset for England

Despite having started just one Premier League game before April, O’Reilly has logged 648 minutes this season, the fourth-highest in Guardiola’s squad.

He began the campaign at right-back in the win over Wolves, before settling into a left-back role for six straight starts. Offensively, he averages 78 touches per game—a mark surpassed by only four teammates—and offers a composed, ball-playing option in defence.