The 18-year-old, born less than 10 miles from the Etihad in Bury, made his first-team debut earlier this season, but he has made himself a regular member of Guardiola’s squad with his consistently mature performances.
Primarily a right-back, Lewis can also play in midfield, and he performed both roles against Arsenal. What impresses most about Lewis is his calmness and awareness, both with and without the ball. When he moved into midfield, he was constantly scanning the area around him, enabling him to take the ball, pass it and move into space.
To be able to play with such authority at his young age is a testament to Lewis’ talent, and the Lahm comparison might already have been made by Guardiola.
During his time as Bayern coach, Guardiola transformed Lahm from a full-back to a midfielder — he made a similar move with Joshua Kimmich, and he could do the same with Lewis. Guardiola has already trusted the youngster in big games against Liverpool and Arsenal, so he clearly has huge faith in him, which looks to be justified.
Best and worst performers
BEST
Rob Holding, DF, Arsenal: The best defenders in the world have struggled to contain Haaland this season, but Holding was excellent and didn’t give the City forward any time or space.
Takehiro Tomiyasu, DF, Arsenal: Making a rare start at right-back, but the Japan international was strong and disciplined in his role. Looked a much better option for the Gunners than Ben White.
Rico Lewis, DF, Man City: The 18-year-old City defender is a real star of the future. Equally comfortable at right-back or when he pushed inside the play in midfield.
WORST
Erling Haaland, FW, Man City: He likes the ball played over the top to run onto, but City wanted him to be a target man who would hold the ball up, but he just couldn’t do it.
