Nico O’Reilly will use the November international break to focus on his recovery after Enzo Maresca revealed the Manchester City youngster has been managing a back problem since the beginning of the season.
The 21-year-old was left out of Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain, despite impressing for the national team during the 2026 World Cup.
While his omission may come as a disappointment, Maresca believes the break has arrived at the right time for the versatile defender and midfielder, who has continued playing despite not being fully fit.
The City manager explained that O’Reilly has experienced recurring discomfort, including difficulties before the team’s match against Coventry City, and is now being encouraged to prioritise treatment and recovery.
“With Nico it’s quite easy. Since we started the season, between his back, if you remember before the Coventry game he’s had more problems unfortunately,” Maresca said.
“He’s not 100% but in the last game I really liked him and thought he played a very good game.
“This is what we need from Nico. We just need to keep him fit because we know how good he is and I have no doubt in future he’ll be in the international team again.”
Maresca wants O’Reilly to make the most of the time away from competitive action, completing the necessary treatment before returning to City at full strength.
“It’s what he needs – to use the break to do the right things in terms of therapy and these kind of things to be 100% after the break,” the Italian added.
Maresca backs Foden despite England omission
O’Reilly was not the only City player missing from England’s latest selection. Phil Foden, who has earned 49 senior international caps, was also overlooked for the forthcoming fixtures.
The forward was absent from England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup and will once again miss out on the opportunity to represent his country during the November international window.
Maresca, however, is satisfied with Foden’s progress since taking charge at the Etihad. The manager believes the 25-year-old is performing well but remains convinced there is another level he can reach.
“He’s doing well. He’s doing well, to be honest,” Maresca said.
“The reason why he’s been left out from the international team, I don’t know, but we’re happy with Phil.
“We know that he can give much more, we know that.
“It’s my duty to try to help him slowly to get back and be one of the best.”
The comments reflect Maresca’s belief that Foden still has plenty to offer, with the City boss determined to help him rediscover his very best form.
Maresca encouraged by City’s progress
The international break will also give Maresca an opportunity to evaluate City’s performances during the opening part of the campaign and consider how the team can continue developing.
The Italian says he has already recognised the identity he wants his side to display, while remaining confident that there is significant room for improvement.
“To be honest I already recognise my team since we start,” he explained.
“I’m so happy I can see working with them every day we can improve many things.
“We know what we are doing well and what we need to improve. It’s a matter of time.”
For O’Reilly, the immediate priority is getting back to full fitness. City will hope the additional recovery time allows one of their most versatile young players to return ready for the challenges ahead.
