Manchester City have played their second pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich – and praise has been plentiful for young Rico Lewis.
City were in action in at the Japan National Stadium, looking to build on the 5-3 win over Yokohama F.Marinos the other day.
And they did just that, beating the German giants 2-1, with Aymeric Laporte scoring a late winner.
Guardiola made a number of changes to the side that started the game against Yokohama.
And the Spaniard entrusted Rico Lewis with a midfield role.
And it was a stellar performance from Lewis, who showed his technical quality throughout the time he was on.
Lewis was key in the opening goal from James McAtee, running into the space and fending off Dayot Upamecano, before playing the ball across for Julian Alvarez.
Alvarez’s shot was blocked, but followed in by McAtee.
Steve Howey hails Rico Lewis for first-half display against Bayern
A lot of people noted the brilliant performance of new signing Mateo Kovacic today. The Croatian already looks to be a fantastic addition.
But, speaking at half-time on City’s Matchday Live, former City player Howey was blown away by youngster Lewis and the confidence he showed against Bayern.
He even said that he was the best player on the park for the first-half when he was on.
He said: “Obviously I haven’t see any of Pep’s training sessions. But you can imagine he will be getting players like him playing in various positions to get an understanding of every position.
“I think Leroy Sane actually started off quite well for Bayern Munich. But ultimately for me the best player on the park first-half has been him, Rico Lewis. He’s been absolutely outstanding.
“He’s done that two or three times (making intelligent runs forwards).
“For me, absolutely brilliant from him first-half.”
Lewis was then substituted at the break along with seven others.
Rico Lewis is a superb young talent
Watching Lewis play football is an absolute pleasure.
The youngster’s football intelligence is incredibly impressive for one so young.
To be able to put in a performance like that against Bayern – a European powerhouse – is nothing short of amazing.
It is extremely exciting to think of how good he could become the more time he spends in this City squad.
He never looks overawed and is always ready to make an impact.
Hopefully in the coming season, he is able to build on the minutes he got last term. It’s competitive, but he has incredible potential.
