Pep Guardiola has lauded youngster Rico Lewis, branding him as an “amazing” and “outstanding player”.
Lewis was remarkable for Manchester City against RB Leipzig, and he had an assist in the game, setting up Phil Foden for City’s opener on Wednesday, October 4, 2023.
Following the game, Pep Guardiola outlined the qualities inherent in Rico Lewis, saying:
“Imagine being 18 years old… huge personality can play in four or five positions, he’s not scared and his defending is really good… he’s a fantastic player.”
Lewis made his Manchester City debut on August 13, 2022, coming on as a second-half substitute, replacing Kyle Walker in the Cityzens 4-0 win over Bournemouth.
The Englishman has contributed his quota to Pep Guardiola’s side success since his arrival, making 29 appearances for the club, scoring 1 goal, and providing 1 assist.
Speaking on the traits of the 18-year-old, and what he provides to Manchester City, Guardiola said:
“I’ve been a manager for 15 years — and I’ve been training unbelievable players, to find a player like Rico in the pockets, moving into the spaces… wow!”
Who is Rico Lewis?
Rico Lewis was born in Bury, England on November 21, 2004, and he has said in the past that he was inspired by Boxing great Muhammad Ali.
Rico Lewis parents?
The name of his father is Rick Lewis, while his mother’s name is Stephanie Lewis.
Rico Lewis sibling?
He has one sibling, a sister, whose name is Sacha Lewis.
Rico Lewis’ football background?
The youngster didn’t start his football journey at Manchester City, as he previously played for local team Prestwich Pythons.
Rico Lewis’s performance at age 6, was admired by football scouts, and he was utilized as a striker for Prestwich Pythons.
He began his youth career as a winger before transitioning to the striking position, where he undoubtedly influenced his team with his attacking input.
Bolton Wanderers, a famous club in English football, was the first team to declare their interest in the 18-year-old.
Garry Riley, a Manchester City scout, was the individual who captured the hearts of Rico Lewis’ parents.
After securing the consent of Rick and Stephanie Lewis, the Cityzens then acquired Rico Lewis.
Rico Lewis has a competitive mindset, a top-fighting spirit, and excellent footballing attributes.
Some of his footballing skills that border on perseverance and discipline were built from the influence of his father, Rick Lewis, a retired boxer.
Rico Lewis’ father’s influence was also helpful in his transition to football, after also starting as a young boxer.
His sister, Sacha Lewis, is also honing her craft to become a world-class female footballer and she currently represents the youth female teams of Manchester City.
Anyway, Rico Lewis has made 6 appearances for the Cityzens this season, scoring no goal and providing 1 assist.
The youngster’s primary position is at right-back, but he can also function as a defensive midfielder, and as a right midfielder.
