Rico Lewis has packed plenty into his 21 years. The versatile right-back, who first arrived at Manchester City as an eight-year-old, has already racked up well over 100 first-team appearances across five seasons. Now, under new manager Enzo Maresca, he is determined to build on that platform.
But football is not the only thing on Lewis's mind. This summer, he staged a seven-a-side football tournament that raised over £3,000 for S.P.I.N. – Supporting People In Need. The event drew a crowd that included teammate Phil Foden, recent academy talent Kaden Braithwaite, and Lewis's younger sister Sacha, who signed her first professional contract with City's Women this summer.
A padel tournament was also held for the same cause while Lewis was away on the club's pre-season tour. And in a summer of personal milestones, he married his long-time partner Amelia in a picturesque Lake Como ceremony.
Now, Lewis is firmly refocused on football. He is expected to feature against Norwich City in the home Carabao Cup third-round fixture on Thursday night. Maresca has revealed that three Manchester City academy graduates will “be involved” in the clash, and Lewis will be eager to seize his opportunity.
Competition for the right-back spot is stiff, with Matheus Nunes and Abdukodir Khusanov also vying for minutes. But Lewis, a popular figure at the club, has never been one to shy away from a challenge.
As he embarks on another season in sky blue, the 21-year-old will be hoping to add to his tally of appearances and perhaps a few more memorable moments – both on and off the pitch.