National World Top Stories Update Thursday 1 January, 2026
Fans believe one of Manchester City’s starters is in desperate need of a rest after looking ‘shaky’ against Sunderland.
A goalless draw at the Stadium of Light saw the Premier League giants fall further behind Arsenal’s in the title fight, as Pep Guardiola’s side failed to break through the Black Cats’ defence.
Crucially, Sunderland had almost as many shots - and just as many on target - as they created a similar number of big chances over the course of the game.
Man City fans laid the blame at the feet of left-back Nico O’Reilly, who was hauled off in the 57th minute for Josko Gvardiol. The England international has featured heavily for Guardiola’s side this season, making 25 appearances in all competitions.
The last time the 20-year-old didn’t play the full 90 minutes in the Premier League was a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, all the way back in October. Now, fans fear he may have been run into the ground, and is in need of a rest.
Posting on X, @unre__ said: “O'Reilly needs a few games out of the starting eleven. He has looked poor and leggy recently.”
@MessiEnjoyer96 added: “[This was the] second game in a row O'Reilly has looked shaky.”
Meanwhile, Sunderland fan account @UnderTheLight73 said: “Humes’ role was key yesterday. He essentially gave Mayenda a free role, which stretched Man City. Nico O’Reilly looked lost.”
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