When the starting lineups were announced yesterday for Manchester City’s FA Community Shield clash with Manchester United there was a sense of excitement about Pep Guardiola’s starting lineup. It featured four players who have risen through City’s academy system. James McAtee, Nico O’Reilly, Rico Lewis and Oscar Bobb all started yesterday. By the end of the game, all four of Manchester City’s youngsters showed that they belonged which is great news for City on the eve of the 24/25 season.
Academy grads 🎓🩵 pic.twitter.com/7QtfrBbHBX
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 10, 2024
Each one of Manchester City’s youngsters showed something during yesterday’s game. Oscar Bobb was the standout of the four. He was by far Manchester City’s most dangerous attacking player. It was his assist that set up Bernardo Silva’s late equaliser. Bobb was also a constant threat to the Manchester United defence. His late assist just capped off his fine display. He looks set for a big season based on his display yesterday and throughout City’s pre-season.
The late @BernardoCSilva goal that took us to penalties! 💪 pic.twitter.com/D20t260CXS
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 11, 2024
Rico Lewis, James McAtee and Nico O’Reilly all had their moments yesterday as well. Lewis showed he looks ready for a bigger role this season he carried his fine pre-season form into yesterday’s game. His link-up play with Oscar Bobb, in particular, was a highlight of City’s display. McAtee and O’Reilly also didn’t look out of place on the big stage. That’s a positive for Pep Guardiola as his team chases even more history during the 24/25 season.
READ MORE: Ederson showed his importance to Manchester City during yesterday’s FA Community Shield win over Manchester United.
Phil Foden has shown the path for Manchester City’s youngsters to make the City first-team. Based on yesterday’s performance, James McAtee, Oscar Bobb, Rico Lewis, and Nico O’Reilly could follow in his footsteps. That is an exciting prospect for Manchester City with the 24/25 season set to begin next weekend.
Esteemed Kompany host Steven Mcinerney also shares his thoughts on Manchester City’s youngsters performances in the video below. He looks at how all four performed as he reacts to Manchester City’s FA Community Shield win over Manchester United in the video below.
