Enzo Maresca could revive Rico Lewis at Manchester City

Enzo Maresca’s recent appointment as Manchester City manager offers a potential revival for England international Rico Lewis, who endured a frustrating 2025‑26 season with only 22 appearances across all competitions under Pep Guardiola. The limited game time highlighted his peripheral role in a squad increasingly focused on physical duels.

Lewis fell down the pecking order in Pep Guardiola’s side, with his relatively small stature seeming to count against him as the Premier League placed greater emphasis on physical battles. His reduced involvement was evident throughout the campaign, limiting his development and confidence.

Under Pep Guardiola, Manchester City increasingly valued winning duels and overall physicality, which further curtailed Lewis’s minutes on the pitch. This tactical shift contributed to his peripheral status during the 2025‑26 campaign.

Enzo Maresca, now at the helm of Manchester City, prefers his team to dominate possession, mirroring Guardiola’s philosophy. He also encourages full‑backs to invert into midfield, a nuance that could provide Lewis with more suitable opportunities.

Lewis is a home‑grown talent known for versatility and technical ability. He has previously operated as a right‑back and can invert into midfield, while his skill set also suits a number eight or number ten role, his preferred position.

Uncertainty surrounds the futures of midfielders Nico Gonzalez, Mateo Kovacic and Tijjani Reijnders. Should any of them depart Manchester City this summer, vacancies could arise, giving Lewis a clearer pathway to regular minutes.

Manchester City are the current FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. Unless he is sold this summer, Lewis could receive more opportunities in the 2026‑27 season, especially if he impresses during preseason.

Analysis suggests that one player may benefit most from Maresca’s approach at Manchester City, highlighting the contrast between Lewis’s sidelined 2025‑26 campaign and a potential revival. How he performs in preseason will reveal whether the new manager can truly revive his prospects.