Rico Lewis endured a frustrating 2025-26 season at Manchester City, making only 22 appearances across all competitions.
The young defender slipped down the pecking order as Matheus Nunes established himself at right-back.
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Lewis's lack of size appeared to count against him as the Premier League evolved. At just 170 centimeters tall, he struggled to win physical and aerial duels.
Midfield Opportunity
With Bernardo Silva leaving City after becoming a club legend, a vacancy has opened in midfield.
The club is in the market for a midfielder this summer, but Lewis could fill the role internally.
Rico Lewis is naturally a midfielder.
He broke through at City as a right-back but plays his best football in the middle of the pitch.
Despite his small stature, he is technically superb and thrives in the half-spaces City often operate in.
Lewis knows City's system intimately. Even with Pep Guardiola's departure, the system should remain largely unchanged.
His familiarity with the City way could be vital next season.
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The England international is highly regarded at the club, having signed a contract extension at the start of the 2025-26 season.
He just needs a permanent role to prosper.
Case for a Transfer
If a midfield move doesn't materialize, a summer transfer could be best for Lewis.
He needs regular playing time to fulfill his potential and cannot afford another season as a bit-part player.
A move to the Bundesliga or a Premier League club like Brighton might suit him.
Lewis has shown he has the talent for City, but without a defined role, his development could stall.
Ultimately, seeing Lewis succeed at City would be a fantastic story given his academy roots.
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However, whether through a new midfield role or a transfer, he must find a path to regular football.
