Rico Lewis has thrown any decision on his future into Manchester City’s court by insisting that playing for the club is his dream amid interest from Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old made clear that his preference is to remain at the Etihad Stadium this month and that the goal is to become a more established starter for Pep Guardiola across the season.
Lewis starred as City beat Wolves 4-0 on Saturday, assisting Erling Haaland’s opener, after surprisingly being named over Matheus Nunes at right back.
Forest have been looking at a deal for the England international, who City value at more than £30million.
‘I’ve never ever seen myself at a different club – I’ve always wanted to play for City,’ Lewis said. ‘It’s my dream club, and like you see (at Wolves), when I’m playing with the kind of players that I’m playing with, it brings out the best in me, so I’m so happy.’
The academy graduate’s ability to move into midfield gave City extra security in central areas on the opening day of the campaign, while his link-up with fellow academy graduate Oscar Bobb caused the hosts significant problems.
Rico Lewis has told Manchester City he wants to stay at the club amid interest from elsewhere
Lewis was involved in a scuffle with Jorgen Strand Larsen during the win at Wolves
Lewis only started four of City’s last 16 matches before Wolves and was left out of the squad entirely for May’s FA Cup final defeat by Crystal Palace.
Guardiola has spoken to the youngster about his current status within the squad and there is still uncertainty about how much he might be utilised.
‘It’s difficult,’ Lewis added. ‘Everyone wants assurance and security, but at the end of the day, it’s on me. It’s on me to perform. It’s on me to take the chances when I do.
‘After that, there’s nothing I can’t blame myself (for). If I take my own chances, I do it. If I don’t, then I have to work and get better.
‘Last season I played more than the season before, this season I want to play more than last season, so it’s always the same goal – becoming an established player.’
