When 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly burst onto the scene this season, it was as a left-back filling in for Arsenal due to injuries in their defensive ranks. However, his performances have caught the eye of not only Thomas Tuchel’s England squad but also Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who believes the teenager’s future lies elsewhere—potentially in midfield.
Lewis-Skelly’s journey to prominence began in Arsenal’s academy, where he was initially groomed as a midfielder. But fate intervened when injuries struck Arsenal’s backline, prompting Arteta to deploy the young defender in a makeshift full-back role. What followed was a remarkable transformation, as Lewis-Skelly quickly adapted to his new position, impressing both teammates and opponents alike. His consistent performances earned him a call-up to England’s senior squad under Tuchel—a testament to his rapid development and versatility.
At just 18 years old, Lewis-Skelly has already made his professional debut for Arsenal in September. Since then, he has become a key figure in Arteta’s plans, earning plaudits for his composure and adaptability on the pitch. His inclusion in Tuchel’s first squad as England boss marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, highlighting his potential to represent his country at the highest level.
While Lewis-Skelly’s current role is primarily as a full-back, Arteta sees a future where the teenager could thrive in midfield. Speaking about the player’s attributes, Arteta remarked, “He is very intelligent, very willing and very physical. If you have those three ingredients and you have a personality that can go through blips—it can happen—that is Myles. That is what he has done.”
Arteta went on to explain that Lewis-Skelly possesses the technical and tactical intelligence required to play in multiple roles. “He can do as a 6 and an 8,” Arteta noted. “It will depend a lot on the relationships and the chemistry with other players, how this evolves within the team. And football, which direction it goes, what demands of certain positions as well. He is certainly a player that can play in lots of positions.”
This flexibility is a hallmark of Lewis-Skelly’s game, allowing him to seamlessly transition between defensive and midfield duties. His ability to read the game, combined with his physical presence, makes him an ideal candidate for a midfield role, where he could provide additional depth and creativity to Arsenal’s squad.
Lewis-Skelly’s rise to prominence is part of a larger narrative at Arsenal, where Arteta has prioritized nurturing young talent. The club’s academy has long been a breeding ground for exceptional players, and Lewis-Skelly is the latest beneficiary of this philosophy. His inclusion in Tuchel’s England squad underscores the recognition he has garnered across the football community.
Arteta’s confidence in Lewis-Skelly stems from his observation of the player’s growth over the past few months. “He has gone from strength-to-strength,” Arteta said, reflecting on the teenager’s development. “He has shown maturity beyond his years and has consistently delivered when called upon.”
Before joining up with England teammates at St. George’s Park, Lewis-Skelly will likely feature in Arsenal’s London derby against Chelsea on Sunday. This match presents an opportunity for the young defender to showcase his skills once again, potentially securing his place in the starting lineup.
Looking ahead, Lewis-Skelly will hope to earn his first cap as a full international against Albania or Latvia as England kick off their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. This milestone would mark another significant achievement in his young career, affirming his status as a rising star in English football.
Mikel Arteta’s vision for Lewis-Skelly extends beyond his current role as a full-back. The manager’s belief in the player’s potential to succeed in midfield highlights his adaptability and versatility. As Arsenal continues to build for the future, Lewis-Skelly stands as a shining example of the club’s commitment to developing young talent.
With his intelligence, physicality, and willingness to learn, Lewis-Skelly has all the makings of a player who could make a lasting impact at both club and international levels. His journey from academy prospect to England international is a testament to his hard work and determination. As he prepares to join the England squad, Lewis-Skelly has shown that he is more than ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s emergence as a key player for Arsenal and a potential asset for England is a story of resilience and adaptability. Mikel Arteta’s confidence in the teenager’s abilities suggests a bright future ahead, one where Lewis-Skelly could redefine his role and contribute significantly to both his club and country. As he embarks on this exciting phase of his career, all eyes will be on the young defender to see how far his talent can take him.
