Arsenal Secures Future with Myles Lewis-Skelly
Arsenal has secured a promising future with Myles Lewis-Skelly, an 18-year-old talent from their academy, who has penned a new long-term contract with the club. Reports emerged on June 18, indicating that the negotiations for a new deal were nearing completion, potentially positioning Lewis-Skelly as one of the highest-paid young footballers globally. The agreement was facilitated by his mother, Marcia Lewis, who represented him during discussions with the club, while manager Mikel Arteta played a crucial role in supporting the negotiations.
Lewis-Skelly’s Joy and Reflections
Upon the announcement of his contract, Lewis-Skelly expressed his joy, stating,
“I’m so proud and happy. Though they may sound like simple words, they truly reflect my emotions about signing with this club. Being a fan, it feels surreal—a dream realized.”
He highlighted his journey through the Hale End academy, reflecting on the importance of humility and personal growth as he looks forward to his future at Arsenal.
“I’ve learned a lot from the games I’ve played, both from the victories and my mistakes. I feel much more prepared for the upcoming season, with a strong desire to learn and enhance my skills. I aspire to leave a mark in football by winning every possible trophy and growing as both a player and a person.”
Rise to Prominence
Lewis-Skelly’s rise has been meteoric. He made his first appearance for Arsenal’s senior team in September 2024, playing as a left-back in a match against Manchester City that ended in a 2-2 draw. The young player not only made 39 appearances across all competitions in the last season but also played a key role in helping Arsenal secure second place in the Premier League and reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Additionally, he was selected for the England national team under Thomas Tuchel in March for World Cup qualifiers, scoring in his debut against Latvia, which made him the youngest player to do so, surpassing Marcus Rashford’s record at just 18 years and 176 days old. This new contract is a significant acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions to both Arsenal and the England team during his breakout season.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Interestingly, left-back had posed challenges for Arsenal prior to Lewis-Skelly’s emergence. Following the acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori the previous summer to address this position, few expected that the solution would arise from within the club itself. Over a span of months, Lewis-Skelly has become a first-choice option, displaying maturity beyond his years.
With his new contract, which reflects his swift ascent, Lewis-Skelly has solidified his status as a key asset for Arsenal and an iconic figure for the fans. Although he has primarily played as a left-back, it is well-known that his natural position is in the midfield. He consistently influences play by moving into central areas, showcasing the confidence and poise often characteristic of seasoned midfielders. Lewis-Skelly’s dynamic playing style has already made him a favorite among supporters, promising to retain his special status at the club for years to come.
