Nico O'Reilly rise epitomises 'new' Manchester City in EFL Cup triumph vs Arsenal

Manchester City are EFL Cup winners for a ninth time after beating Arsenal 2-0 at Wembley on Sunday, claiming their first trophy in the competition since 2021.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 7:25pm

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Manchester City's 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the EFL Cup final was highlighted by the standout performance of 21-year-old Nico O'Reilly, who scored a quick-fire double in the second half to secure the trophy. O'Reilly's rise from a squad player to a key first-team member over the past year embodies the transformation of Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, moving away from the tiki-taka style of the 2010s to a more versatile, athletic approach.

Why it matters

Nico O'Reilly's performance in the EFL Cup final showcases the evolution of Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, as the club moves away from the diminutive playmakers of the past to a more well-rounded, athletic squad. O'Reilly's ability to play multiple positions and contribute both defensively and offensively highlights the new direction of the club.

The details

O'Reilly's two goals in the second half stunned Arsenal and secured the EFL Cup for Manchester City. His first goal came when he headed in a cross that Kepa Arrizabalaga failed to catch, and his second came just four minutes later when he finished off a cross from Matheus Nunes. O'Reilly's determination and positioning were key to both goals, showcasing his versatility and work rate.

  • O'Reilly scored his two goals just after the hour mark, in the 64th and 68th minutes.
  • O'Reilly celebrated his 21st birthday on March 21, the eve of the EFL Cup final.

The players

Nico O'Reilly

A 21-year-old Manchester City player who scored a quick-fire double in the EFL Cup final to lead his team to victory. O'Reilly has risen from a squad player to a key first-team member over the past year, embodying Manchester City's transformation under Pep Guardiola.

Pep Guardiola

The manager of Manchester City, who has overseen the club's shift away from the tiki-taka style of the 2010s to a more versatile, athletic approach.

Erling Haaland

A Manchester City player known for his attacking excellence, but who did not score in the EFL Cup final.

Antoine Semenyo

A Manchester City player known for his attacking excellence, but who did not score in the EFL Cup final.

Rayan Cherki

A Manchester City player who provided the cross for Nico O'Reilly's first goal in the EFL Cup final.

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What they’re saying

“That's where I grew up – Manchester. It's me, how I became who I am today. Growing up there, I really enjoyed it. I used to go out and play football every day with my friends. I'm still in touch with a lot of them. We still get along, I speak to them here and there. I'm from Collyhurst but recently moved away. I loved living there.”

— Nico O'Reilly

What’s next

Nico O'Reilly will look to build on his strong performance in the EFL Cup final as he aims to earn a spot in the England squad for the upcoming World Cup.

The takeaway

Nico O'Reilly's standout performance in the EFL Cup final showcases the evolution of Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, as the club moves away from the tiki-taka style of the past to a more versatile, athletic approach that emphasizes well-rounded players who can contribute in multiple ways.