Manchester United Urged to Sign Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly for Left-Back Depth

Michael Carrick, Head Coach of Manchester United, shows appreciation to the fans following the team’s victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Former Manchester United player Quinton Fortune has urged his former club to consider signing Manchester City youngster Nico O’Reilly as they look to strengthen their defensive options. The 21-year-old has established himself as a highly dependable option for Manchester City, successfully transitioning from midfield to full-back and demonstrating his ability to handle the demands of regular Premier League football.

Quinton Fortune backs Nico O’Reilly for Manchester United

Fortune believes O’Reilly could be an ideal addition for Manchester United, particularly given the club’s ongoing need for genuine depth on the left side of their defense. He highlighted the player’s exceptional versatility, comparing his skill set to that of former United stalwart John O’Shea.

Fortune revealed to Football365: “Players coming directly from City, I don’t know how United fans would take that!

“But they have wonderful players. Number one I’d say Nico O’Reilly at left-back is brilliant, he can cover center-back and midfield, similar to John O’Shea.”

Luke Shaw remains the senior option at left-back, but Manchester United must begin planning for the position’s long-term future. Shaw’s persistent injury history at Old Trafford represents a significant concern, and relying on him through another demanding campaign poses a substantial risk.

O’Reilly, meanwhile, has proven his capability to perform effectively at the Premier League level. His emergence at City is particularly impressive given that left-back was not his original position. Developed primarily as a midfielder, O’Reilly’s transition to full-back under Pep Guardiola has been a resounding success. His physical strength, pace, and proficiency in one-on-one situations have made him a regular starter, showcasing the qualities needed to compete at the highest level.

Signing O’Reilly would provide tactical flexibility

For Manchester United, signing O’Reilly would provide more than just another squad option. His exceptional versatility would grant the club greater tactical flexibility, while his young age makes him a prime candidate to become a long-term solution at left-back.

The move would also be intriguing given O’Reilly’s Manchester City background. However, his Premier League experience and continued development make him the type of player United should seriously consider if an opportunity becomes available.

Fortune’s recommendation therefore makes sense from both a short-term and long-term perspective. United need greater security at left-back, and O’Reilly has already shown he possesses the qualities required to compete at the highest level.

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