Rico Lewis has taken the football world by storm in a whirlwind few seasons. From captaining Manchester City’s youth teams to becoming their youngest Champions League scorer, his meteoric rise has captivated fans and piqued the interest of many. This article delves into the young defender’s journey, exploring his early life, club career highlights, international appearances, and what the future might hold.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born on November 21, 2004, in Bury, Greater Manchester, Rico Lewis’ passion for football began at a young age. Interestingly, his inspiration stemmed not from another footballer, but from the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Ali’s fighting spirit and determination likely resonated with Lewis, who has displayed these qualities on the pitch throughout his career.
Lewis’ heritage adds another layer to his story. He is of Jamaican descent, and with a growing number of talented British footballers with Caribbean roots, his success could inspire future generations.
Joining the Manchester City Juggernaut
Lewis’ football journey began at the tender age of eight when he joined Manchester City’s renowned academy. His talent quickly became apparent, and by the 2021/22 season, he was leading the club’s U-18 team as captain. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he was named the team’s Player of the Year for the same season.
While excelling with the U-18s, Lewis also made his mark in the UEFA Youth League with the U-19 team. A notable achievement during this period was a goal he scored against the youth team of Paris Saint-Germain, showcasing his attacking prowess alongside his defensive skills.
Recognizing his potential, Manchester City offered Lewis his first professional contract in July 2022. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, one that would see him break records and establish himself on the big stage.
Breakthrough Season (2022/23): Premier League Debut and Champions League Heroics
The 2022/23 season proved to be a breakout year for Lewis. Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, clearly saw something special in the young defender and began integrating him into the first team.
Lewis’ Premier League debut arrived on August 13, 2022, against AFC Bournemouth. Coming on as a substitute for Kyle Walker in the 82nd minute, he announced his arrival in the top tier of English football. The experience gained from this cameo appearance likely fueled his determination to make a bigger impact.
A significant moment came just over a month later, on October 5, 2022. Lewis was handed his Champions League debut against FC Copenhagen. Stepping onto the field as a substitute for João Cancelo, a player he has often been compared to due to their similar attacking styles, Lewis announced himself on the European stage.
The highlight of the season, however, arrived on November 2, 2022. Given his first start in the Champions League against Sevilla, Lewis rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion. Not only did he put in a solid defensive performance, but he also etched his name in the history books.
In a thrilling match that saw Sevilla take the lead, Lewis equalized for Manchester City in the second half. This goal made him the youngest ever scorer on a first start in a Champions League match at 17 years and 346 days old. He also became Manchester City’s youngest ever goalscorer in the competition.
The joy of the occasion was marred by racist abuse Lewis received from a section of the Sevilla fans. However, he handled the situation with maturity, showcasing not only his talent but also his mental strength.
Lewis continued to impress throughout the season, making further appearances in both the Premier League and Champions League. He ended the season on a high, celebrating a Premier League title win with Manchester City, adding another chapter to his remarkable rise.
International Recognition and the Road Ahead
Lewis’ impressive club performances haven’t gone unnoticed by the England national team setup. He has represented England at various youth levels, including the U-16, U-18, and U-19 teams.
In September 2021, he even managed to score a goal for the U-18s in a 1-1 draw against Wales. He received his first call-up to the U-19 team in September 2022 and made his debut in a qualifying match for the 2023 European Under-19 Championship.
March 2023 saw Lewis take another step forward in his international career when he received his first call-up to the England U-21 squad. He made his debut for the team later that month, although they fell short in a 2-1 defeat against Croatia.
FAQ’S
What position does Rico Lewis play?
Rico Lewis is a versatile player who can excel as a full-back on the right side of the defense. He can also slot into a defensive midfield role if needed.
Which club does Rico Lewis play for?
Lewis currently plays for the prestigious Manchester City in the Premier League. He joined the club in 2022 and has been impressing everyone with his talent.
How old is Rico Lewis?
As of today, April 17, 2024, Rico Lewis is a young talent at just 19 years old. He was born on November 21, 2004.
Where is Rico Lewis from?
Rico Lewis hails from Bury, England. This English town has produced another rising star in the world of football.
How tall is Rico Lewis?
Rico Lewis stands at a height of around 1.7 meters (5 feet 7 inches). Despite his stature, he makes up for it with his agility and tactical awareness.
Is Rico Lewis playing for the England national team?
While Lewis hasn’t featured in a senior match yet, his impressive club performances have certainly put him on the radar for the England national team. A call-up in the near future wouldn’t be a surprise.
What’s so special about Rico Lewis?
Lewis is known for his strong passing, ability to hold onto the ball under pressure, and his versatility across positions in defense and midfield.
How much is Rico Lewis worth?
Rico Lewis’s rising stock is reflected in his estimated market value. Transfermarkt currently lists it at around ₹304 Crore (around €35 Million).
Where can I find more information about Rico Lewis?
You can find official player profiles and updates on the Manchester City website or his page on Transfermarkt. There might also be news articles and fan discussions about him online.
What’s next for Rico Lewis?
With his talent and dedication, Rico Lewis is expected to continue his development and potentially become a key player for both Manchester City and the England national team in the coming years.
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