Pep Guardiola has revealed that Nico O’Reilly is feeling better ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming FA Cup fifth-round showdown with Newcastle United, although the youngster’s availability will be assessed closer to kick-off.
City travel to St James’ Park on Saturday for their latest meeting with the Magpies in what will be the fifth encounter between the sides this season.
As the FA Cup journey continues, Guardiola’s men are pushing to reach the sixth round for an eighth consecutive campaign.
O’Reilly missed the midweek Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest after suffering an injury during the victory over Leeds United at Elland Road.
However, there is renewed optimism within the City camp that the midfielder could return to contention for the trip to the north-east.
“Yesterday he felt better – we will see today,” Guardiola said when asked about the former Academy player’s availability.
Meanwhile, the Cityzens received a boost earlier in the week as Erling Haaland returned to action against Forest after missing the Leeds encounter due to a knock.
His comeback highlighted the importance of squad depth during a demanding stretch of fixtures.
Indeed, the Newcastle tie marks the second of three matches across different competitions in quick succession.
After the midweek league action, City will shift focus to a major European test with a trip to Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League next week.
With silverware still possible on multiple fronts, Guardiola stressed the importance of rotating his squad. City are also preparing for a crucial EFL Cup Final later this month against Arsenal.
The manager has been especially cautious with Rodri following the midfielder’s recovery from a long-term injury.
Guardiola believes the Spaniard is steadily rediscovering the form that earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2024, though the packed schedule means careful management is required.
“Finally this happening like we wanted from a long time ago,” Pep added.
“When he came back and made steps back and then having some consistent routines to play and play.
“But now, we play a lot of games in March and long travels away so that fatigue is involved.
“Travelling to Madrid, then after come back, travelling to London and it’s four or five hours to arrive to the hotel.
“We have to use all the squad otherwise its not possible to play in the rhythm we want to play.”
As the fixtures pile up and the stakes continue to rise, Guardiola’s ability to manage his squad depth could prove decisive in City’s pursuit of trophies across multiple competitions.
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