England's Nico O'Reilly arrives at first World Cup with life story inked across his skin

Nico O’Reilly arrived at England’s first World Cup training session in Kansas City with his story already written — across his skin. The 21-year-old Manchester City midfielder, expected to operate at left back for Gareth Southgate’s successor, drew attention for an extensive collection of tattoos that chart his journey from the streets of Manchester to the grandest stage in football.

On his right shoulder sits the phrase “The World is Yours,” with “Everything is possible for those who believe” inked just below. His right arm also carries the reminder to “Stay Humble,” while his left shoulder features a two-finger peace sign. A signpost tattoo points in two directions — one reading “Dreams,” the other “Reality.”

The most distinctly Mancunian piece of body art is a reference to the city’s dialling code, 0161, alongside the words “No Ball Games” — a sign familiar to anyone who grew up playing football in Manchester’s parks and estates. It is the kind of detail that grounds a player who has risen quickly through the ranks at City.

O’Reilly’s first impressions of the England camp were straightforward. “Togetherness,” he said when asked about the squad’s mood at their Kansas City base. “It is a really great group and we have bonded. I think you will see that on the pitch.”

Veteran defender Dan Burn, 34, also attending his first World Cup, echoed the theme. “Brotherhood — the manager has spoken a lot about that,” Burn said. “It is a big thing. First and foremost, we have top-quality players and one of the best forwards in the world in Harry Kane. I feel like this is the type of tournament where players who are normally stars for their clubs are going to have to take a slightly different role. That’s leaning into that brotherhood thing again, where we are just happy for each other and happy to help out as much as we can.”

The session took place roughly two hours before a tornado struck the Kansas City area, though the squad were unaffected. Kansas City is one of four base camp destinations selected for the tournament, also hosting Argentina, the Netherlands, and Algeria.