There is a role for Rico Lewis at Manchester City. The technically gifted right-back/midfielder is a quality exponent of the inverted full-back role. Lewis is blessed with tremendous technical and tactical ability, the shame is that his size and the evolution of the Premier League count against him. However, there are games where Lewis shines. One such game came last night as Manchester City beat AEK Athens 5-1 at the Etihad Stadium. Playing AEK Athens suited the strengths of Lewis' game as he put in a superb display in possession as City cantered to victory.
To their credit, AEK Athens did have a go at Manchester City in possession to begin last night's match. Marko Nikolic's side did push numbers forward, especially early, however this did play into Manchester City's hands. Once Elliot Anderson opened the scoring in the 12th minute there was only one winner last night. From the moment Anderson scored, Rico Lewis' influence grew. He displayed exactly what he adds to Enzo Maresca's team in a quality performance.
Rico Lewis got forward throughout last night's match. He grabbed two assists for his efforts. Lewis set up Phil Foden's opening goal in the 34th minute with a clever ball after making a superb run inside of Foden to receive the ball from the England international. Rico Lewis then picked out Foden with a quality ball to help Manchester City take a 2-0 lead.
Also, Lewis set up Foden's second goal of the night after making another bursting run into the AEK Athens penalty area and his sublime first-time lay-off teed up Foden to finish spectacularly. Both of those assists were great glimpses of Lewis's quality on the ball and his tireless energy.
To cap off Rico Lewis' night, it was his clever through ball down the right that set Ryan McAidoo free behind the AEK Athens defence to set up Phil Foden to complete his hat trick. That pass summed up Lewis' night. His quality in possession and tireless work rate stood out all night. It was pleasing to see Lewis play so well at the Etihad Stadium last night.
So far this season Rico Lewis has only made 4 appearances in all competitions . He has been on the periphery of proceedings to begin the 2026-27 season. Unfortunately for Lewis, his size and lack of athleticism do count against him in the Premier League. Especially if he plays at right-back against quick and strong wingers. It has always seemed that Lewis is best suited to playing in midfield. He was a midfielder when he rose through Manchester City's academy system. But competition for spots in City's midfield is fierce.
Given how Enzo Maresca wants his full-backs to play, there is a role for Rico Lewis to play for Manchester City. Especially against certain opponents and in certain games. He showed that last night against AEK Athens. At times, it does get forgotten how good a player Rico Lewis is. He is an England international. Given the amount of games that City play, Lewis has an important role to play for his team. When he plays as he did last night, you can see what he offers Enzo Maresca and his team.
