Rico Lewis In 2026: Net Worth and Salary, Bio, Personal Life, Transfer Value and FAQs

Profile

Rico Lewis has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in English football. The Manchester City academy product, who is only 21 years old, has already won a historic treble and proven to be a versatile player who can play a variety of positions. It is truly amazing how he went from entering City's academy at the age of eight to being a vital player of the team under Pep Guardiola.

Rico's distinct background adds even more intrigue to his story. Rico acquired the mental fortitude and discipline that now characterize his style of play while growing up in a family steeped in combat sports. His father was a two-time British Thai Boxing champion. Football fans all throughout the world have taken notice of this combination of technical skill and warrior mindset.

Early Life and Biography

On November 21, 2004, Rico Henry Mark Lewis was born in Bury, Greater Manchester. He was raised in a working-class household that valued athletics. His mother, Stephanie Lewis, gave the family steadfast support, while his father, Rick Lewis, was a two-time British Lightweight Thai Boxing champion. Rico also has a younger sister named Sacha, who plays as a winger for Manchester City's Under-16 Women's side.

Rico was introduced to the world of combat sports at an early age. Baby Rico would watch training sessions from his stroller at the Phoenix Muay Thai gym in Whitefield, where his father would frequently take him. This early exposure to discipline and physical training would later prove invaluable in his football career. According to Rick Lewis, Rico is an athlete as well as a football player, and his all-encompassing approach to sports has influenced the player he is now.

When Rico joined Little Kickers, a Radcliffe community football program, at the age of five, his football career officially began. He was regularly scoring goals for the Prestwich Pythons by the age of six. Early on, Bolton Wanderers expressed interest in him because of how evident his talent was. But it was an obvious choice when Manchester City, the team he had grown up rooting for, called. At the age of eight, Rico enrolled in City's esteemed institution.

Rico advanced quickly through the academy's levels. He started playing for the Under-18 team at the age of 15, where he faced youngsters who were two years older. For the 2021–22 season, he was selected captain of the U18 team, who won the league. Pep Guardiola and his coaching team were impressed by his leadership abilities and maturity above his years.

Music also has an intriguing family link. In an interview, Rico disclosed that his grandfather, Dave, played bass and toured with the renowned British band Oasis. The intriguing Lewis family story is further enhanced by this musical heritage.

Professional Career

On August 13, 2022, Rico made his Manchester City first-team debut after replacing Kyle Walker in the 82nd minute of the Premier League match against AFC Bournemouth. He was only seventeen. On October 5, 2022, he defeated Copenhagen 5-0 to make his Champions League debut.

Rico's first Champions League start against Sevilla on November 2, 2022, was the turning point. In a 3-1 comeback victory, he not only started but also scored the equalizer. At 17 years and 346 days, he became City's youngest-ever Champions League scorer and the youngest player to score on a Champions League debut. Unfortunately, racist taunts from some Sevilla supporters ruined the game, but Rico handled them with incredible calm.

For Rico, the 2022–2023 season was momentous. As Manchester City won the league, he participated in 14 Premier League games, starting 10 of them. The team completed an unprecedented trifecta by winning the FA Cup and the Champions League. Despite being an unused replacement in the Champions League final, Rico contributed to this accomplishment at the age of just eighteen.

During the 2024–25 season, Rico kept improving. In the second minute of City's 2-0 semi-final triumph over Nottingham Forest on April 27, 2025, he scored his first FA Cup goal. However, Rico's straight red card in the first game against Wydad AC during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in June caused controversy and resulted in a lengthy three-match suspension that kept him out of the competition for the rest of it.

Rico extended his contract with Manchester City until 2030 on September 12, 2025, demonstrating his dedication to the team. Two weeks later, on September 27, he made his 100th appearance for the team, substituting in a 5-1 victory over Burnley at home, marking a noteworthy milestone.

Rico has had a difficult season in 2025–2026. His playing time has been restricted due to a crowded midfield and the rise of Matheus Nunes at right-back. He has made 16 appearances as of January 2026, primarily as a late substitution. On January 10, 2026, his performance against Exeter City in the FA Cup third round served as a timely reminder of his caliber. Rico scored two goals in a 10-1 triumph after starting at right-back but switching to midfield, demonstrating the technical skill and cunning that won Guardiola over.

Salary and Net Worth in 2026

Although it can be difficult to pinpoint exact financial information on young football players, we can offer fair estimates based on contract data and market research. At Manchester City, Rico Lewis presently receives a base salary of about £25,000 per week, or about £1.3 million annually before bonuses.

Icon Polls estimates that Rico will have a net worth of between £2 million and £5 million in 2026. This amount accounts for his earnings, sponsorship contracts, and total savings. It's crucial to remember that Rico has a modest lifestyle and prefers to make prudent investments for his future rather than splurging on luxuries like ostentatious vehicles or pricey timepieces.

His current term expires on June 30, 2030, and was extended in September 2025. Although the precise conditions have not been made public, rumors indicate that his pay will rise dramatically as the arrangement develops. When young players sign long-term contracts with their teams, this is common procedure. 

Rico's current wage is low when compared to the highest paid players at Manchester City, such as Kevin De Bruyne. This is normal for a young player who is still making a name for himself in the starting lineup, though. His earning potential will rise significantly as he gets more playing time and possibly establishes himself as a regular starter.

Transfer Value.

Throughout his early career, Rico Lewis's market worth has changed, indicating both his potential and his inconsistent playing time. Although estimations from various football valuation platforms vary, it is generally agreed that Rico is a very valuable asset.

Rico's adaptability is what makes him so important. He can play as an attacking midfielder, defensive midfielder, left back, or right back. In particular, Pep Guardiola has commended his ability to switch from full-back to midfield, a tactical move that has grown in significance in contemporary football. Because of his versatility, he can play a variety of roles in a team, which makes him a desirable possibility for elite teams.

There has been a lot of interest in transfers. Nottingham Forest offered to treble Rico's salary in the summer of 2025 in order to lure him to the City Ground. Aston Villa, Brighton, Everton, and Tottenham are among the other Premier League teams that have expressed interest. European powerhouses like Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Atletico Madrid have also been keeping an eye on him.

Rico has, however, made it apparent that he is committed. "For me, I've never, ever seen myself at a different club," he told reporters in August 2025. "I've always wanted to play for City," he said after signing a contract extension in September 2025 that would keep him at the team until 2030.

Personal Life and Character

Rico Lewis is renowned for maintaining a very discreet personal life. Rico has not officially acknowledged any romantic connections, despite sporadic rumors and conjecture on social media regarding a girlfriend. According to some reports, he might have a partner that pushes him to read more, although he would rather keep these things private.

Rico, who is 21, is mostly concerned with his studies and football career. According to reports, he is pursuing an online degree in business management, demonstrating his dedication to life outside of football. His parents always placed a high priority on his education and athletic development, and this balanced approach to his work and education is a reflection of those ideals.

Rico is described by those who know him as modest, well-behaved, and mature for his age. He is 'a humble guy who doesn't talk much but has the appreciation of all his friends,' according to Pep Guardiola, and his teammates allegedly hold him in high regard for both his skill on the field and his character off it.

For a young professional football player, Rico leads a rather humble lifestyle. He doesn't wear pricey jewelry or drive fancy cars. He has close ties to his Bury background while living in Manchester, near his family. He still places a great deal of importance on his family. "My family watched me make my debut and they were in a box and I could see them, and being able to meet them after was like, I've worked hard for this and they've also worked hard for it, so they are proud of me and I am proud of that," Rico described after making his Premier League debut.

His attitude to football is still influenced by his training in Thai boxing. He performs well on the field thanks to the discipline, mental tenacity, and capacity to withstand physical punishment he developed in the ring. Even though Rico is only 1.70 meters tall, he is incredibly strong and seldom lets larger, more powerful opponents scare him.

Rico, who is Jamaican, was influenced by boxing great Muhammad Ali when he was younger. He is a devout Christian, but like many athletes of his generation, he doesn't often share his religious beliefs on social media.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rico Lewis

1. What position does Rico Lewis play?
Rico is a very flexible player, but his primary position is right-back. He is frequently used in an inverted full-back position where he tucks into midfield since Pep Guardiola views him as a midfielder. In addition, he is capable of playing left back, attacking midfield, and defensive midfield. One of his best qualities is his adaptability.

2. What is Rico Lewis's age?
As of January 2026, Rico is 21 years old, having been born on November 21, 2004. Despite his youth, he already has a great deal of experience playing football at the top level, including a treble winner's medal and Champions League outings.

3. Is Rico Lewis Jamaican or English?
Rico is a dual national. Born in England, he has played for several England youth teams and now represents England internationally. He is qualified to represent Jamaica, though, because he is of Jamaican ancestry. He has decided to play for England thus far.

4. What is the jersey number of Rico Lewis?
Rico represents Manchester City with the number 82 shirt. He was assigned this number when he made his debut in the first team, and he has maintained it as he has grown to be a valuable member of the team.

5. What is Rico Lewis's income?
Rico presently makes nearly £25,000 a week, or almost £1.3 million annually before bonuses. As he matures and gains more playing time, his contract, which expires in 2030, provides for pay increments.

6. What is the net worth of Rico Lewis?

According to Icon Polls, Rico Lewis will have a net worth of between £2 million and £5 million in 2026. This covers his earnings as well as his savings and endorsements. This is outstanding for a 21-year-old, despite his modest lifestyle and lack of lavish spending.

7. Is Rico Lewis a trophy winner?
Yes, despite his youth, Rico has taken home several significant awards. In 2022–2023, he was a member of Manchester City's historic treble-winning squad, which won the Champions League, FA Cup, and Premier League. With City, he has also won several domestic cups and Premier League championships.

8. What is the transfer value of Rico Lewis?
Depending on the source, Rico's transfer value might range from €35 million to €80 million. The most often mentioned amount is between €40 and €70 million. He is a very important asset because of his age, potential, and versatility.

9. Is Rico Lewis dating someone?
Rico is quite discreet about his personal life. He has not openly acknowledged any romantic connections, despite sporadic rumors that he might have a girlfriend. He keeps his personal life private and would rather concentrate on his work.

10. What is Rico Lewis' height?
Rico's height is 1.70 meters, or roughly 5 feet 7 inches. Although this is deemed insufficient for a professional football player, particularly a defender, he makes up for it with remarkable technical skill, intellect, and tactical awareness. His training in Thai boxing also equipped him with the physical toughness to take on bigger opponents.

11. Rico Lewis joined Manchester City when?
Around 2012–2013, Rico enrolled at Manchester City's academy at the age of eight. After rising through the youth ranks, he earned his first professional deal in 2022. Later that year, he made his first-team debut.

12. What kind of style does Rico Lewis play?
Rico is renowned for his remarkable technical proficiency, astute placement, and tactical adaptability. He plays well in confined places and is at ease with the ball. He enjoys inverting into midfield as a full-back to gain numerical advantages and aid in ball flow. His ability to play in the pockets and his comprehension of intricate tactical concepts have been commended by Pep Guardiola.

13. Is Rico Lewis an England player?
Yes, Rico has competed for England in the Under-15, Under-17, Under-18, Under-19, and Under-21 young levels. Despite not making his debut, he was called up to the senior England side in March 2024. He is still a member of England's youth squad and is trying to make a name for himself in the senior squad.

14. What is the family history of Rico Lewis?
Rico is from a family of athletes. Rick Lewis, his father, runs a Muay Thai gym and was a two-time British Lightweight Thai Boxing champion. Stephanie Lewis is his mother. The Under-16 Women's squad of Manchester City is home to his younger sister, Sacha. Curiously, his granddad, Dave, played bass and toured with Oasis.

15. What is the contract expiration date for Rico Lewis?
Rico has a deal with Manchester City that expires on June 30, 2030. In September 2025, he showed his dedication to the team by signing an extension. Rico and Manchester City both see a future together, as evidenced by this long-term agreement.

16. What does Pep Guardiola think makes Rico Lewis unique?
Pep Guardiola's admiration for Rico has been abundant. "What a player," Guardiola remarked following a game against RB Leipzig. Guardiola especially values Rico's tactical acumen and adaptability. "To find a player like him playing in the pockets, how he has to move in holding midfield, full-back coming inside moving in the spaces, he is one of the best I ever trained by far."

17. Did Rico Lewis participate in Thai boxing training?
Yes, Rico's father's gym introduced him to Thai boxing at a very young age. The focus, mental tenacity, and physical training from Thai boxing have greatly impacted his football career, even if he didn't pursue it professionally like his father. According to his father, Rico is more than just a football player; he is an athlete first.

18. Which teams would like to sign Rico Lewis?
Rico has drawn interest from a number of elite teams. Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Aston Villa, Everton, and Tottenham have all been connected in the Premier League. Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Juventus are among the European teams who have kept an eye on his condition. Rico has, however, made his dedication to Manchester City known in public.

19. Rico Lewis has broken which records?
When Rico scored against Sevilla on November 2, 2022, at the age of 17 years and 346 days, he became the youngest player to score on his first Champions League start. In addition, he became the youngest goal scorer in Champions League history for Manchester City. These recordings demonstrate his innate talent.

20. What are the advantages and disadvantages of Rico Lewis?
Rico's outstanding technical skill, tactical acumen, adaptability, poise under duress, and outstanding passing range are among his strong points. In addition, he possesses tremendous leadership abilities and is exceptionally mature for his age. His physical size is his worst flaw. In one-on-one encounters, he may find it difficult to compete with swift and strong wingers at 1.70 meters. His anticipation and posture, however, frequently make up for this.

21. Does Rico Lewis have a partner?
Rico has not acknowledged any romantic relationships in public. He keeps his personal life very discreet and concentrates on his football profession, despite sporadic speculations and rumors on social media that he may have a girlfriend.

22. What level of schooling does Rico Lewis possess?
Rico was a standout student and athlete at Bury's St. Gabriel's RC High School. In 2020, he finished his GCSEs and made the decision to play football full-time. He is currently pursuing an online degree in business management, demonstrating his dedication to learning in addition to playing football.

23. What is the number of Manchester City appearances that Rico Lewis has made?
When Rico entered as a substitute against Burnley in September 2025, he had made 100 appearances for Manchester City. He had made more than 115 appearances for the team in all competitions as of January 2026.

24. What are Rico Lewis's physical measurements and shoe size?
Rico weighs between 64 and 65 kilograms (141 and 143 pounds) and is 1.70 meters (5'7"). He prefers to use his right foot. Rico keeps such private information private, thus specifics like shoe size are not made public.

25. Does Rico Lewis have any endorsement deals?
Although particular sponsorship agreements have not been made public, Rico's agent is CAA Base Ltd. Although he hasn't been as outwardly commercial as some other young players, he probably has or will soon have endorsement deals with sports brands as a young player at one of the largest teams in the world.

26. Rico Lewis resides where?
Rico resides in Manchester, not far from his Bury family. For concerns of security and privacy, he has kept his lifestyle low-key and hasn't made information about his house public.

27. What pastimes does Rico Lewis have outside of football?
Rico keeps his personal hobbies to himself. He is said to have a passion for reading (his girlfriend allegedly pushes him to read more) and to be interested in his family's musical history. In addition to his football career, he has concentrated on his studies of business management.

28. Has there been any controversy surrounding Rico Lewis?
Rico has avoided controversy for the most part. His red card against Wydad AC during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup was the most noteworthy event, and it led to a lengthy suspension. During his historic Champions League performance in 2022, he also faced racial taunts from certain Sevilla supporters, which he handled with incredible poise.

29. What is the FIFA rating of Rico Lewis?
Rico Lewis has a rating of 77 and a potential of 84 in FIFA 26 (EA FC 26). Both his present skill level and the game's prediction of his future growth are reflected in his rating. He is regarded as a player with great potential who has the ability to become a premier defense in career mode.

30. What does Rico Lewis have ahead of him?
Rico Lewis appears to have a bright future. With a 2030 contract and Pep Guardiola's unwavering support, he has the chance to become a Manchester City icon at the young age of 21. Even though he hasn't played much in the 2025–26 season, his talent is indisputable. He has the ability to rank among the top players in his position if he can get a more consistent starting position, either at midfield or full-back. His technical skill, intelligence, and adaptability indicate that he has the potential to become a top player.


Rico Lewis embodies every thrilling aspect of contemporary football. He is one of the most promising young players in the world, a Manchester City regular, and a treble winner at the age of 21. His development from an eight-year-old academy hopeful to a member of the first squad demonstrates not only skill but also commitment, wit, and moral fiber.
Rico is both financially stable and highly regarded on the transfer market, with Icon Polls estimating his net worth to be between £2 and £5 million and his market value to be between €35 and €80 million. Perhaps more significantly, though, he possesses the proper mindset and work ethic to realize his enormous potential.
He is a player unlike any other because of the special fusion of his academy education, his Thai boxing experience, and his innate talent. Rico is among the best young players Pep Guardiola has ever coached. Fans may anticipate seeing Rico Lewis grow into a top performer in the upcoming years because he has a contract that expires in 2030 and is clearly committed to Manchester City.
Rico Lewis is a player to watch whether he plays as a defensive midfielder, an inverted full-back, or wherever his versatility takes him. His story is still in progress, but based on the first few chapters, it looks like it will be an engaging read.