Rico Lewis has exploded onto the scene in the past two seasons, becoming a key player for Manchester City and earning a call-up to the England national team. This young defender’s meteoric rise has captivated fans and pundits alike, leaving many searching for answers about his journey and potential. This article delves into the world of Rico Lewis, exploring his rise through the academy ranks, analyzing his playing style, and examining his impact on Manchester City’s recent success.

From Manchester to the Etihad: Lewis’ Early Development

Born in Bury, Greater Manchester, in 2004, Lewis’ footballing journey began at a young age. He honed his skills at the Fletcher Moss Rangers junior club, a breeding ground for talent that has produced Premier League stars like Marcus Rashford and Danny Welbeck.

In 2016, at the tender age of 12, Lewis’ talent was recognized by Manchester City’s prestigious academy. He quickly rose through the youth ranks, impressing coaches with his technical ability, tactical awareness, and maturity beyond his years.

While details of his academy career are scarce, news reports suggest Lewis captained City’s U18 side and was a standout performer in youth tournaments. His dedication and talent paid off in 2022 when he was promoted to the first-team squad under the watchful eye of Pep Guardiola, a manager known for his willingness to trust young players.

A Dream Debut and Establishing Himself in the Squad (2022-23)

Lewis’ first-team debut came on August 13, 2022, against AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League. Stepping onto the hallowed turf of the Etihad Stadium at just 18 years old, he replaced the established Kyle Walker in the 82nd minute. This brief appearance signaled the beginning of Lewis’ integration into the senior squad.

As the 2022-23 season progressed, Lewis found himself sparingly used but continued to impress in training. His big opportunity arrived in the Champions League. With City facing Sevilla in the group stage, Lewis received his first start in a competitive European fixture. He grabbed his chance with both hands, showcasing his composure and technical ability on the biggest stage.

The turning point for Lewis came in November 2022. Kyle Walker suffered an injury, opening a door for the youngster. Lewis stepped into the starting lineup and never looked back. He impressed with his defensive solidity, calmness under pressure, and surprising attacking contributions.

Statistics from the 2022-23 season paint a remarkable picture. Lewis boasted the highest pass completion rate (92.2%) for any teenager across Europe’s top five leagues and the best open play passing accuracy (91.8%) among all Premier League full-backs. These numbers highlight his exceptional technical ability and ball-playing skills, a hallmark of Pep Guardiola’s philosophy.

The culmination of Lewis’ remarkable season came with him being part of Manchester City’s historic treble win. He played a crucial role in their Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League triumphs, showcasing his maturity and ability to handle the pressure of competing at the highest level.

A New Season, New Challenges, and England Recognition (2023-24)

The 2023-24 season brought a new challenge for Lewis. With Kyle Walker returning from injury, Lewis had to fight for his place in the starting lineup. Pep Guardiola, known for his rotation policy, utilized Lewis in various positions, including midfield, showcasing his versatility and tactical intelligence.

Despite facing increased competition, Lewis continued to impress. A standout performance against Young Boys in the Champions League group stage saw him win the Player of the Match award with a near-perfect passing record. His maturity and composure in midfield were lauded by pundits.

Lewis’ impressive club form did not go unnoticed. In November 2023, he received his first call-up to the senior England national team. Despite being an unfamiliar face on the international stage, Lewis seamlessly transitioned into Gareth Southgate’s squad. He made his debut in a friendly against North Macedonia and delivered a performance that surprised many. His calmness on the ball and ability to read the game drew praise, with some fans calling him a “natural-born international.”

Playing Style and What Makes Lewis Special

So, what exactly makes Rico Lewis such a special talent? Here’s a breakdown of his key attributes:

Technical Ability: Lewis boasts exceptional technical skills. He’s comfortable on the ball with both feet, possesses a good passing range, and can dribble out of tight situations. This technical prowess allows him to seamlessly integrate into Pep Guardiola’s possession-based style of play.

Versatility: While primarily a right-back, Lewis has shown his adaptability by playing in central midfield.

FAQs

Q: Who is Rico Lewis?

A: Rico Lewis is a 19-year-old English footballer who plays as a right-back for Manchester City. He’s known for his versatility, also being comfortable in defensive midfield and right midfield positions.

Q: How did Rico Lewis break into the Manchester City squad?

A: Lewis has been with Manchester City since he was just eight years old, progressing through their academy ranks. He impressed at youth level, becoming captain of the U18s in the 2021/22 season. His talent caught the attention of the senior team, and he found himself included in the squad that won the 2022/23 Premier League title, FA Cup, and Champions League, achieving a historic treble.

Q: What are Rico Lewis’ strengths as a player?

A: Lewis is a technically gifted defender, comfortable on the ball and composed under pressure. He’s known for his pace, tackling ability, and tactical awareness, making him a valuable asset in both defense and attack.

Q: What is Rico Lewis’ international experience?

A: Lewis has represented England at various youth levels. He’s played for the U18s, U19s, and most recently made his debut for the U21s in March 2023. With his impressive performances at club level, a call-up to the senior team might not be far off.

Q: How much is Rico Lewis worth?

A: As a young player still establishing himself, Lewis doesn’t have a transfer fee. However, his market value is estimated to be around ₹304 Crore (as of May 27, 2024) according to Transfermarkt.

Q: What are Rico Lewis’ future prospects?

A: At such a young age, Lewis has already achieved a lot with Manchester City. With his talent and Pep Guardiola’s trust in young players, Lewis is expected to become a mainstay in the City defense for years to come. He’s also a strong contender for a place in the senior England squad in the near future.

Q: Is Rico Lewis on Fantasy Premier League (FPL)?

A: Yes, Lewis is on FPL. However, due to the competition at right-back in Manchester City, his starting role might not be guaranteed every week. This makes him a bit of a risky option for FPL managers.

Q: Where can I find more information about Rico Lewis?

A: You can find more information about Rico Lewis on the official Manchester City website, his Transfermarkt profile, and various sports news websites. You might also find interviews or highlights of his gameplay on YouTube.

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