A strong case could be made that Phil Foden and Rico Lewis were two of the standout performers for Manchester City in their 4-0 victory against Slovan Bratislava.
City equalled Manchester United’s record in the Champions League of putting together an unbeaten run of 25 games in the tournament — signaling their dominance at club football’s most prestigious stage.
Foden made his first start in Europe’s elite competition this season in style — initially scoring what has become his trademark goal by slotting the ball into the back of the net from distance.
In the second half, the Manchester City midfielder played a stunning clipped pass to James McAtee, who gave Dominik Takac no choice with a well-struck finish.
As for Lewis, his assist for Erling Haaland’s goal was a thing of beauty.
The £25,000-a-week man decided to go direct and find Haaland in behind Slovan Bratislava’s defence.
The Norwegian went on to bypass the goalkeeper and tapped the ball into an empty net.
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What Foden said to Lewis after Man City beat Slovan Bratislava
Both Lewis and Foden showcased signs of a dangerous partnership developing between the two in attacking midfield.
The City duo seemed to be on each other’s wavelength — playing intricate passes in between the lines to each other.
Being a pair of incredibly gifted technicians, Foden and Lewis can trust each other to retain the ball in tight spaces.
Having trained and played with each other for years now, their synergy was on display in their latest Champions League outing.
After Manchester City brushed past Slovan Bratislava, Foden left a comment on Lewis’ post-match Instagram post.
The 24-year-old commented: “What a player.”
Phil Foden has sung Rico Lewis’ praises in the past as well
Foden sang Lewis’ praises in the past as well — emphasising how highly he rates his fellow countryman.
The six-time Premier League winner shone a light on how the versatile defender is far more “intelligent” and “aware” of his surroundings than he was at 19.
Having come through Manchester City’s academy as well, Foden understands the trials and tribulations of first-team football.
Witnessing Lewis stack impressive performances up time and again must continue to leave the decorated midfielder pleasantly surprised.
Manchester City supporters will be hoping to see both academy graduates on the pitch as much as possible this season.
Foden and Lewis could be a potential dynamic duo to keep an eye out for this campaign.
