Rico Lewis has opened up on his integration into the first-team at Manchester City and how he is learning under Pep Guardiola.
Lewis has made nine appearances in all competitions for the treble winners this season and has earned a regular role under Guardiola, who praised the teenager as one of the best young players he has ever coached earlier this season.
The 18-year-old was asked for his view on the manager’s comments and admits it is surreal to hear such praise from the City boss.
“It’s quite difficult to comprehend that someone like that is saying something about yourself, especially for me,” Lewis said at a pre-game press conference ahead of City’s Champions League clash with Young Boys.
“I have watched all of Pep’s teams growing up and all the players he has worked with. Obviously, it is an amazing comment but for me I just have to continue doing what I do and playing the best I can.”
Lewis is aiming to break into the City side on a permanent basis this season and revealed how Kyle Walker has offered him guidance since he stepped up from the academy.
“I think definitely Kyle [Walker]. When I came in I was always playing full-back and whenever we were in a tactical meeting I was always stood next to him, so he was giving me little pointers here and there and that has helped me a lot.
“I don’t really need much information or too much at once, it was just little things that he saw that can improve me. I can take anything onboard from him, he is one of the best full-backs to ever play in the Premier League.”
The teenager’s form this season has sparked talk of a senior England call up ahead of this month’s internationals, and Lewis admits a place in the squad for Euro 2024 next summer would be a ‘dream’.
“It’s a dream, every player wants to play in a big tournament for their country, but I am just focusing on what I can do to better myself. If that comes with it, it comes with it. It’s not something I am focusing on. There are so many things I can get better at so, first of all, I will focus on myself.”
