Despite the commendable efforts of academy graduate Nico O'Reilly, who has been filling in as a left-back, Guardiola emphasized the necessity for a specialist in that position.
“We will need a new fullback in the summer. Obviously. Nico O’Reilly is helping, but he's not a left-back,” Guardiola stated.
O'Reilly, traditionally an attacking midfielder, has demonstrated versatility by adapting to the left-back role amid the team’s injury challenges. His performances, including scoring two pivotal goals in the FA Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle, have earned him praise from Guardiola, who described him as having a “big, big presence” and being “another threat from our set-pieces because we are not a tall team and he helps us.”
Nevertheless, Guardiola's remarks suggest that while O'Reilly's contributions have been valuable, the club is seeking a dedicated fullback to fulfill the demands of the position. Reports have linked Manchester City with interest in Quentin Merlin, a 21-year-old left-back from Nantes, as part of their strategy to reinforce the squad.
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