Myles Lewis-Skelly faces a challenge familiar to many young talents: breaking through when a seasoned player is in peak form. The Arsenal defender finds himself competing with Riccardo Calafiori, whose exceptional performances have cemented his place as the Premier League’s first-choice left-back.
Calafiori’s consistency is undeniable; he’s started every single Premier League game this season, a testament to his reliability and skill. This presents a significant hurdle for Lewis-Skelly, who is eager to prove his worth and secure consistent playing time.
However, the story isn’t one of complete blockage. Lewis-Skelly has been entrusted with a crucial role in the Champions League, starting three of the four group stage matches. This demonstrates a clear vote of confidence from manager Mikel Arteta.
His impact hasn’t been limited to simply filling a spot. Lewis-Skelly has also shone in the League Cup, starting both games and contributing with two vital assists – a clear indication of his attacking prowess and creative vision.
Last season offered a glimpse of Lewis-Skelly’s potential. Injuries to other full-backs opened the door, and he seized the opportunity, starting an impressive 42 games across all competitions. He scored one goal and provided three assists, establishing himself as a valuable member of the squad.
Arteta’s continued faith, particularly in the high-stakes Champions League matches, speaks volumes. It’s a clear signal that the manager views Lewis-Skelly not just as a promising talent, but as a key player in Arsenal’s future, patiently nurtured and strategically deployed.
The competition is fierce, but Lewis-Skelly’s performances when given the chance are turning heads. He’s demonstrating the quality and composure needed to thrive at the highest level, positioning himself for a brighter future at the Emirates.
