Back to the Chelsea Newsfeed

Pep Guardiola claims Rico Lewis is the player behind Manchester City's resurgence as they aim for the Premier League title... insisting the 18-year-old, in line for a new deal, has been key to others 'understanding how to play better'

Pep Guardiola revealed the secret to Manchester City's re-energised Premier League title charge has been Rico Lewis.

Lewis has made 12 starts in all competitions in his debut season - the majority coming during an intense period just after the World Cup when City struggled for rhythm.

The teenager, in line for a new contract, operated in a dual role between right back and central midfield as Guardiola found ways of reshaping City amid ongoing problems with Joao Cancelo, who subsequently left for Bayern Munich.

Lewis made a major impact, particularly when altering the course of a slender one-goal victory at Chelsea after a half-time introduction at Stamford Bridge.