Manchester City’s rising star Rico Lewis is quickly becoming hard to overlook, as his inclusion in the England squad for the second time signals his growing prominence. He’s likely to earn his third international cap this month.
Lewis has become a key player for City, playing in almost every match this season and consistently keeping veteran Kyle Walker out of the starting lineup. With Rodri sidelined due to injury, Lewis might see more time in midfield, or at least play a hybrid role, transitioning from his typical right-back position.
Although pundits have heaped praise on Cole Palmer as the top performer in the Premier League at the moment, many within Manchester City would argue Lewis has been even more outstanding. His performances, even in a team led by Erling Haaland, who is already racking up goals, have caught the eye of manager Pep Guardiola. Lewis, known for his versatility, has added three assists this season, adding to the four he had in his previous senior career, with Guardiola left speechless by the young player’s adaptability and stellar form.
Receiving back-to-back England call-ups for the first time, Lewis aims to cement his place in the national team, just as he has at City. Yet, his remarkable ability remains somewhat underappreciated outside the City fanbase.
Opposition teams still try to outmuscle Lewis, seemingly unaware of his ability to outmaneuver larger players with ease. They’re often caught off guard when he advances further up the field, linking with Haaland, Jeremy Doku, or Phil Foden—something he’s been doing for a while now.
Interestingly, both of Lewis’s England appearances so far have come at left-back, a role he’s occasionally filled for City this season, even though his natural position is on the right. However, his flexible playstyle means his starting position rarely matters.
During England’s recent match in Bratislava, Lewis showcased his range, playing in various roles, from defensive midfielder to left-winger, covering nearly every part of the field. His ability to step in for injured players like Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, and Julian Alvarez, while also keeping Walker benched, highlights his importance to City. His versatility could also make him crucial for England, particularly as they currently lack depth in left-back options.
Lee Carsley, the England interim coach, mentioned Lewis as a possible left-back, though he’s also urged his other wide players to contribute in that area. This could free up Lewis to support England’s midfield—a role he’s already excelling at for City.
With his tactical awareness and ability to transition seamlessly between full-back and midfield, Lewis could be the missing link for England. He might even hold the key to fitting Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer into the same system, offering both defensive cover and creative support.
Lewis himself has stated that he no longer sees himself tied to a specific position. His manager, Guardiola, has praised his intelligence and ability to perform in any role, suggesting that a positional shift for England wouldn’t faze him.
While some might still question his defensive abilities, Lewis always seems to appear in the right place when needed. Carsley has pointed out that Lewis will need to focus more on defending if selected for England this month, but there’s little doubt that he’ll rise to the occasion.
Once Lewis makes his mark on the international stage, to add to his domestic and European accomplishments, Manchester City’s hidden gem will no longer be a well-kept secret.
