Rico Lewis 'one of the best I ever trained', says Man City manager Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heaped lavish praise on Rico Lewis following his star turn in Wednesday night's Champions League victory over RB Leipzig, describing the teenager as one of the best players he has ever trained.

Lewis, 18, broke into the City first-team squad last season playing predominantly in his natural right-back role, but he was deployed alongside fellow Academy graduate Phil Foden in central midfield against Leipzig.

City won the match at the Red Bull Arena 3-1 as late goals from Julian Alvarez and Jeremy Doku secured victory after Foden's first-half opener was cancelled out by Lois Openda early in the second half.

However, it was the performance of Lewis that most caught the eye of Guardiola, and the City manager insisted the youngster will be getting plenty more opportunities this season.

“What a player. What a player,” Guardiola said. "Eighteen years old. I have been a manager for 14, 15 years training unbelievable players.

“To find a player like him playing in the pockets, how he has to move in holding midfield, full-back coming inside moving in the spaces - he is one of the best I ever trained by far.

“He is a humble guy, doesn't talk much, but has the appreciation of all his mates.

“He didn't play much this season. Last season he was a key point and helped us understand what we should do in our build-up. Today was proof again. This season he hasn't played as much but he is going to play a lot.”

Lewis made his first impression on Guardiola during the 2022/23 pre-season after the Spaniard was made aware of his talents by coach Carlos Vicens. After impressing in a friendly against Bayern Munich, Lewis was integrated into the senior squad and went on to make 23 appearances in all competitions