Guardiola calls Rico Lewis ‘one of the best’ he’s ever seen

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has lavished praise on teenage star Rico Lewis, lauding the youngster’s versatility and exceptional maturity.

After another standout performance in City’s win over Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semi-final, Guardiola described the 19-year-old as “one of the best” he has ever seen, particularly for players who operate in tight spaces.

“Rico Lewis moves really well in the small spaces,” Guardiola said. “He’s one of the best I’ve ever seen, one of the best.”

“His reception, his control, his rhythm is really good. He plays like someone with 10 years of experience. It’s not easy to find that in a player so young”, Guardiola added.

This season, Lewis has stepped up for the Cityzens in almost every department of the game, slotting seamlessly into midfield and defensive roles.

It is clear that he has earned Pep’s trust for his intelligent movement, technical control, and tactical awareness. The 19-year-old’s ability to receive the ball under pressure and dictate tempo has been key in several of City’s recent games, and it is the reason his manager never hesitates to hand him opportunities in matches of high magnitude.

Lewis continues to develop under the guidance of Guardiola, and with such high praise from one of football’s greatest minds, he looks set to become a mainstay in City’s squad.