Micah Hamilton stated he was at a loss for words after scoring in his Champions League debut for Manchester City.
The 20-year-old, who was formerly a ball-boy for the English giants, seized his opportunity after manager Pep Guardiola made multiple changes to the lineup for Wednesday’s final ‘dead’ group-stage encounter away to Red Star Belgrade.
Hamilton scored early in the first half and then converted a late penalty as holders City prevailed 3-2 to finish Group G with six wins from six.
“I don’t even know what to say,” Hamilton, a City academy alumnus, told the club’s website.
“I started out just trying to ease into the game, and then the opportunity presented itself, and I just took it.” I had no idea what to do to celebrate!
“It hasn’t even hit me yet. I’m just taking everything in. It’s incredible.”
Manchester-born Hamilton joined City when he was nine years old.
Injuries delayed his debut, but Hamilton shone in Belgrade alongside fellow academy ‘graduates’ Rico Lewis and Oscar Bobb, who scored City’s second goal.
“I’ve played with (Rico) right through the age groups and now to be doing it on the big stage is something mad,” Hamilton added.
“And the same goes for Oscar.
“Two outstanding players.” It felt great to have them by my side.
“City’s academy system is excellent, and especially when you train with the first team on a daily basis, you improve every day.” They make you feel at ease and welcoming, and I really felt at home on the field.
“I’m just going to keep my head down, keep working and hopefully chances will come.”
Hamilton and Bobb put City up 2-0 before Hwang In-beom equalized for Red Star.
With an 85th-minute penalty, Kalvin Phillips restored City’s two-goal lead before Aleksandar Katai headed home a late consolation for the hosts.
Phillips’ first goal for City since joining from Leeds last year.
Guardiola has stated that he does not know what will happen with the England midfielder during the January transfer window. He has arrived. There are a lot of games left till the end of the month, so perhaps he can assist us.”