Pep Guardiola has described Manchester City’s late win over Everton as “massively important” in their pursuit of Champions League qualification, following a difficult season that saw them fall short in both the Premier League title race and the Champions League play-offs.
City, who are chasing a top-five finish to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League, were on the brink of dropping points at Goodison Park before late goals from academy talent Nico O’Reilly and midfielder Mateo Kovacic sealed a hard-fought 2–0 victory.
“We have five or six games left. Liverpool and Arsenal couldn’t win here, so this result is huge,” Guardiola told BBC Sport. “I’ve always said qualifying for the Champions League is a huge achievement. Not thinking so would be arrogant.”
With the Premier League granted an extra spot in next season’s Champions League due to strong English performances in Europe, City’s win lifted them to fourth, strengthening their grip on qualification.
At full-time, City players and staff made their way to the away fans to celebrate the win, with chants of appreciation ringing out for both Guardiola and the soon-to-depart Kevin De Bruyne.
Victory in their next match against top five rivals Aston Villa could prove pivotal.
“It is in our hands,” Guardiola added. “We have a final on Tuesday, three games at home, two away. Hopefully, we can achieve this big success.”
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20-year-old Nico O’Reilly, making only his second consecutive league start, continues to impress in a makeshift left-back role, notching his second goal in as many matches.
Traditionally an attacking midfielder, O’Reilly has slotted into an inverted defensive role due to injuries to key defenders like Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, and John Stones.
“He’s not really a left-back,” Guardiola said. “But he’s helping us a lot. I’m more than grateful—he is taking his opportunity.”
O’Reilly, who has contributed to six goals in his last six appearances, credited his improvement to learning on the job.
“My defending is definitely improving. Every day I’m learning, and I’m grateful,” he told Sky Sports.
City veteran Ilkay Gundogan described the youngster as “very humble” and praised his ability to adapt and deliver.
“He’s playing in a position that isn’t natural for him. He has the technical ability and timing to score crucial goals,” said Gundogan.
With five league games left, Manchester City now aim to finish the season strong and secure their place in next season’s European elite.
BBC
