Rico Lewis faces uncertain future as Enzo Maresca weighs options

Manchester City defender Rico Lewis could push for a summer exit if incoming manager Enzo Maresca does not guarantee him regular first‑team football, a report says. Lewis made just 11 Premier League appearances, starting four, in Pep Guardiola’s final season at the Etihad Stadium. He signed a five‑year extension in September 2025 that binds him to Manchester City until 2030. Nottingham Forest and Everton have already shown Premier League interest, according to the report. Under Pep Guardiola, Lewis was praised for his ability to play across the back line and midfield, making him a distinctive asset from the City Football Academy. Yet his involvement fell short of expectations in the 2025‑26 campaign.

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He contributed five goals or assists across 23 appearances in all competitions last season. Despite earning five England caps in 2024, he was omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s FIFA World Cup squad. Director of football Hugo Viana is overseeing a rebuild at the Etihad Stadium, and the club’s pursuit of Malo Gusto from Chelsea could push Lewis further down the pecking order. The French right‑back’s arrival would intensify competition for the position. According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Maresca, an Italian, will discuss Lewis’ future directly before any decision is taken. That combination of a long‑term contract and limited game time makes the summer outcome uncertain for both player and club.