Rico Lewis
Manchester City academy product Rico Lewis showcased his potential in an impressive midfield performance against Villarreal, as he was given a rare opportunity to play in his favored central role. The 20-year-old played a pivotal part in Manchester City’s 2-0 triumph at El Madrigal, setting up Erling Haaland for the opening goal and delivering a composed display throughout the match.
Rico Lewis said: “I’m always happy when I play there and the manager knows that. I’m really happy. I think it’s where I affect the game the most and when I’m playing when I’m happy there’s no better feeling.”
Lewis added: “It’s amazing. To play with him in the team it helps more than you think, he draws so many defenders which frees up other players and then when those people are free that frees himself up, so it’s impossible to defend. Credit to him, he’s such a hard worker, he never stops wanting to score and you can see that.”
He further commented: “We’ve got our confidence back, that’s the main thing, when you’re playing with confidence there’s nothing to stop you but yourself. Everyone trusts each other, we all want the ball.”
Lewis’s performance against Villarreal marked a significant moment in his season, having been on the periphery of the first team since the campaign’s opening weekend. His only other start came in a Carabao Cup match against Huddersfield. However, his display in Spain has highlighted his capabilities in midfield, a position he is eager to occupy more frequently.
The young midfielder’s assist for Haaland’s goal was a testament to his ability to impact the game positively. Haaland’s goal marked his 12th consecutive scoring appearance for club and country, bringing his tally to 24 goals in 14 games this season. Lewis’s ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates like Haaland has proven invaluable for Manchester City.
The victory in Spain extended City’s unbeaten streak to nine matches, with the team regaining its confidence and cohesion. Lewis’s emergence in midfield adds another dimension to Pep Guardiola’s squad, providing the manager with more tactical flexibility as the season progresses.
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