Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Manchester City youngster Rico Lewis, describing the 20-year-old as among the best he's ever worked with when it comes to operating in tight spaces.
The City boss highlighted Lewis' ability to receive the ball under pressure, maintain rhythm and demonstrate composure—qualities Guardiola values highly in his system.
Lewis, who made his Premier League debut in 2022, has continued to grow in stature at the Etihad. Born in England with Jamaican heritage, the defender-midfielder hybrid penned a five-year contract extension last year and marked a milestone moment with his first top-flight goal against Crystal Palace in December.
"Rico Lewis moves really well in the small spaces... he's one of the best I've ever seen, one of the best. His reception, his control, and his rhythm are really good," the Spanish manager said.
Guardiola's endorsement places him in esteemed company as the Catalan manager has long been known for nurturing emerging talent. His comparison of Lewis to some of the finest technical players he's managed echoes the development paths of academy graduates like Phil Foden.
While the club's financial power often draws criticism, the emergence of players like the 20-year-old showcases a less talked-about facet of City's long-term planning.