Nico O Reilly lifting the trophy

Nico O’Reilly predicts Premier League title race finish after Arsenal lead

Adem Ozcan Last updated: May 3, 2026, 11:41 am
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Image: IMAGO / Every Second Media

How late will this Premier League title race go?

That is the question hanging over the final weeks of the season after Arsenal moved six points clear at the top, piling fresh pressure on Manchester City in what is becoming another tense run-in.

City still have two games in hand, and while the table currently favours Arsenal, the champions know the equation remains in their hands if they keep winning.

Speaking ahead of Monday’s trip to Everton, Manchester City’s Nico O'Reilly admitted he expects the battle to stretch right to the finish.

Nico O’Reilly sends clear message on Manchester City title chase

City have found momentum at the right time.

Back-to-back league wins, including a major result against Arsenal earlier in the run-in, have kept Manchester City firmly in the conversation despite their packed fixture schedule.
O’Reilly says belief inside the squad remains strong.

“We’re confident in ourselves. There are still a few games to go and it could go down to the last game.
We’re going to try and win every game and score as much as we can. We’re going into every game trying to put a good performance in and win.”
— Nico O’Reilly, via club media

That confidence matters now more than ever.

Arsenal may have six points on the board, but City’s two games in hand mean the pressure shifts quickly if Pep Guardiola’s side keep their rhythm.

Arsenal advantage clear, but Manchester City still control the race

There was a brief moment when City climbed above Arsenal after beating Burnley, moving top on goals scored.

But scheduling has worked in Arsenal’s favour since then.

With City balancing FA Cup commitments alongside league matches, Mikel Arteta’s side have taken advantage and opened up daylight again.

Still, the title race feels far from settled. Based on recent matches we’ve covered, City’s run-in looks demanding but manageable, and their experience in these moments often becomes decisive.

However, much will depend on whether Arsenal maintain consistency under growing pressure.

Nico O’Reilly focused on the finish, not individual awards

O’Reilly has quietly become one of City’s most important players this season.

Used at left-back and in midfield, his versatility has given Guardiola valuable options during a packed campaign, and his performances have pushed him into the conversation for end-of-season young player awards.

Stat (2025/26) Nico O’Reilly
Appearances 37
Goals 8
Assists 9
Pass Accuracy 89%

source: sofascore match data – 3 May 2026

Those numbers reflect how much trust he has earned.
But the player himself is staying grounded.

“It would be a great achievement but there are still a few games to go and we’ll see what happens.
I just need to knuckle down and keep working hard.”
— Nico O’Reilly

From the last few weeks of City’s campaign, it’s been clear the focus inside the dressing room remains fixed on silverware first.

Individual recognition can wait.

Key Insights

  • Arsenal are six points clear at the top of the Premier League
  • Manchester City have two games in hand
  • Nico O’Reilly expects the title race to go to the final day
  • City face Everton next in a key fixture
  • O’Reilly’s performances continue to strengthen his importance in Guardiola’s squad

What’s next?

Manchester City’s trip to Everton now feels pivotal.

A win would cut Arsenal’s lead and shift momentum back towards Guardiola’s side, especially with the fixture gap beginning to close. Arsenal’s next results will also shape the pressure levels at the top, but City know there is little room for error now.

If both sides keep winning, the title race could stay alive until the final weekend of the season.

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