“He will definitely feature in the semi-final against Forest”- Pep Guardiola DROPS Huge Hint on ‘Outstanding’ Man City Wonderkid Set to Star in FA Cup Semi-Final Against Nottingham Forest
Manchester City secured their spot in the FA Cup semi-finals with a comeback victory over Bournemouth.
While City have just clinched their place in the last four, manager Pep Guardiola has already confirmed some early team news ahead of their Wembley showdown with Nottingham Forest.
The Blues rallied from a goal down to defeat Bournemouth on Sunday, with second-half goals from Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush overturning Evanilson’s first-half opener.
City made history by reaching the FA Cup semi-finals for a record seventh consecutive season, and they will enter the match as favourites to lift the trophy.
However, Guardiola’s main priority for the remainder of the season remains securing a top-five finish in the Premier League, which is likely to guarantee a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Currently, they sit fifth, just one point behind Chelsea in fourth, but only three points ahead of Aston Villa in ninth.
“Outstanding” Man City talent to feature in FA Cup semi-final
Guardiola praised his squad after their dramatic win over Bournemouth, with 20-year-old Nico O’Reilly earning Player of the Match for his impactful cameo.
The youngster came on at halftime for Abdukodir Khusanov and quickly made his mark with assists for both of City’s goals.
Though O’Reilly’s preferred position is as a holding midfielder, he excelled in an unfamiliar left-back role, impressing so much that Guardiola confirmed he will play in the FA Cup semi-final against Forest next month.
“We did it,” said Guardiola after the match. “Seven consecutive semi-finals in the FA Cup, that’s outstanding. This group of players has achieved that. To come to one of the toughest away places and win is impressive.”
He continued, “Nico’s impact was great, but it wasn’t just him – I’m really pleased we reached another semi-final.
Not just the young players, but the experienced ones too. Bernardo Silva, Gundogan, and De Bruyne were excellent.
Nico scored two goals against Plymouth, and his impact today was outstanding. He’ll definitely play in the semi-final.”
After the match, O’Reilly expressed his gratitude to Guardiola for the opportunity to shine in such a crucial game. “My instructions were to get involved as much as I could. It was great to contribute with two assists – I was buzzing. I’m grateful to the manager for giving me these opportunities and for playing alongside the best players out there.”
