Man City condemn racist abuse of 17-year-old Rico Lewis by Sevilla fans

Man City condemn racist abuse of 17-year-old Rico Lewis by Sevilla fans
_127501141_cityteam_getty.jpgRico Lewis, front right, was making his fifth appearance in the Manchester City first team, but this was his first start

Manchester City have condemned racist abuse aimed at 17-year-old goalscorer Rico Lewis by Sevilla fans during the Champions League win over the Spaniards at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.

City said two arrests have been made and police and the club are investigating.

"We will not tolerate discrimination of any kind at our stadium," City said.

"We will be offering our full support to Rico following these vile incidents."

Lewis marked his full debut by driving home the Blues' equaliser in their 3-1 group-stage win over Sevilla.

The goal ensured Bury-born Lewis, who has been promoted through the City academy after joining the club aged eight, eclipsed Karim Benzema as the youngest player to score on his first start in the Champions League.

It should have been the perfect start for the teenager, who was singled out for praise by manager Pep Guardiola immediately after the match.

"We don't give presents here," said Guardiola. "He had to earn it, The people love players from the academy but we see him every day. We know he has quality and I am really happy for him."

Former Arsenal and England defender Martin Keown, speaking as a pundit on BT Sport, highlighted the fact the night would also have been a dream come true for Lewis' Manchester-based family, as they cheered him on from the stands.

"It's a big moment for him and his family," he said. "To play and score, it's a dream come true for him. This should whet his appetite."

More to follow

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