Arteta admits ‘big risk’ with Lewis-Skelly paid off after stellar midfield debut

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Mikel Arteta has admitted he took a “big risk” deploying Myles Lewis-Skelly in Arsenal’s midfield for the first time this season – but acknowledged the gamble paid off spectacularly in the 3-0 victory over Fulham.

The 18-year-old academy graduate, who had made just three Premier League appearances this campaign with only one start, was thrust into central midfield against the Cottagers and delivered a performance that left his manager purring with pride.

“It was a big risk because I knew what was going to happen,” Arteta explained in his post-match press conference. “If it works, it’s great. If we would have lost the game I know what would have happened. ‘How do you play a kid at this age, in this scenario, in a position that he hasn’t played all season?'”

Outstanding debut display

Lewis-Skelly’s midfield bow could hardly have gone better. The teenager was composed under pressure, using his body smartly to turn out of trouble and draw fouls when needed. His statistics told the story of a player ready for the big stage – winning possession six times, drawing four fouls, and completing an impressive 64 of his 66 passes.

According to the Evening Standard, the performance was so accomplished that Lewis-Skelly emerged as a strong contender for player of the match, only missing out due to Viktor Gyokeres’ two goals and assist in Arsenal’s comfortable win.

The timing of Lewis-Skelly’s breakthrough feels significant for Arsenal, particularly given the toll this season has taken on the club’s midfield options. Martin Zubimendi has started all but one Premier League match this term, and his form has visibly declined in recent months as fatigue has set in.

Transfer implications

Arteta’s reluctance to use Lewis-Skelly in midfield until now appears to have been a missed opportunity. The Spaniard was remarkably candid about his previous hesitation, admitting: “Probably I don’t have a clue. Maybe I should have done it earlier, I don’t know.”

The breakthrough comes at a crucial juncture for both player and club. Lewis-Skelly has been linked with potential moves away from north London this summer, representing pure profit for Arsenal as a Hale End graduate. Meanwhile, the Gunners are reportedly planning midfield reinforcements to reduce the burden on Rice and Zubimendi next season.

Lewis-Skelly’s display against Fulham serves as a timely reminder of his capabilities in the position where he excelled through Arsenal’s academy ranks. If Arteta cannot guarantee him regular midfield opportunities, other clubs will undoubtedly be monitoring a player who has just demonstrated he can thrive at the highest level.

The teenager’s versatility – having played extensively at left-back this season – adds another dimension to his value, particularly his understanding of how to cover for Riccardo Calafiori’s attacking runs from defence.