Pep Guardiola says he is delighted with the praise and plaudits coming Nico O’Reilly’s way.
Our versatile youngster, who penned a new long-term deal in recent weeks, was called up to the England squad for the first time and then shortlisted for the 2025 Golden Boy award.
With so much attention happening so quickly, the boss is urging caution and focus for the 20-year-old who has still only made 30 appearances for City.
Asked if he was happy with the Golden Boy nomination for Nico ahead of our game with Everton on Saturday at 15:00 (UK), the boss said: “Absolutely. He played at a high level always, but young players have to be careful of the compliments.
“Being stable mentally is the most important thing in modern football.
“They need a career for 10 to 15 years and it’s not possible if your mind is up and down.
“It’s really important, he went to the national team, being there already is massively important for him.”
And Guardiola was also asked about Josko Gvardiol’s workload at his Friday press conference.
The Croatian played twice for his country during the international break and made 55 appearances for the Blues last season – but Pep feels he is in good condition and is not unduly concerned with his playing time.
“Yeah, he’s young, his physicality last season was maybe one of the most important players in terms of play, play, play with the problems we had,” said the boss.
“After, we suffered with injuries but he’s getting better. He’s young, playing two roles perfectly but always we spoke together and from my point of view he has a big margin to improve.
“But he’s perfectly coachable, a top guy, listens a lot and wants to improve which will help him to be a better player. He can do good on both sides - and do better in both sides.”
And Guardiola also says he is happy for Jack Grealish, who has shone for Everton since joining on loan.
Though he can’t face his parent club on Saturday, he has been one of the Toffees’ standout performers so far this season.
“Obviously he’s there, and he’s been massive since day one, playing minutes which is what we wanted,” said Pep.
“The precision we have with him, he’s a lovely guy, but for different reasons he didn’t play much. He’s playing every game.”
Asked if he’d spoken with Grealish since the move, he added: “Not yet since he left, but tomorrow if he comes, I will.”