Arteta reveals why Lewis-Skelly took time to break through after ‘difficult spell’

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Myles Lewis-Skelly’s remarkable transformation from peripheral figure to Champions League semi-final starter has been one of Arsenal’s most compelling storylines in recent weeks, with Mikel Arteta revealing the deliberate process behind the 19-year-old’s breakthrough.

The academy graduate delivered standout performances against Fulham and Atletico Madrid, playing in his natural midfield position after months of frustration at left-back. His displays helped Arsenal secure a place in their first European Cup final for 20 years.

Testing resilience at the top level

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s trip to West Ham, Arteta admitted he had deliberately tested Lewis-Skelly’s mental strength this season, ensuring the teenager understood the standards required at the highest level.

“I think it’s been a process of, probably understanding him better, him understanding as well the standards that are required when you play or don’t play that much at this level,” Arteta explained.

“And then he’s been exceptional, his attitude, the way he’s been trained, the way he’s been supporting the boys when he hasn’t played, and he’s given us every sign to think that when we were going to give him the chance, he was going to respond in the manner that he’s done it.”

Navigating rapid rise and setback

The Arsenal manager offered insight into the emotional journey Lewis-Skelly had experienced, from academy prospect to first-team regular to squad player struggling for minutes.

“He’s a boy that was playing with the under-18s, under-21s, sometimes he wasn’t even playing, he was playing in a different position,” Arteta said. “He comes in [last season], he comes through, he plays in a completely different position [left-back] that he’s never played before, he’s exceptional, everybody’s talking about him, he goes to the national team.”

“He comes back from pre-season, and then he starts to realise that maybe he’s not going to be a starter. So you need to go through those emotions, not only you [the player], but the people next to you as well, the people that are giving you advice, and you have to navigate through that, and that’s not easy.”

Lewis-Skelly had slipped down the pecking order behind Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie at left-back, threatening his hopes of making England’s World Cup squad. His lack of minutes inevitably led to speculation about his future, with any potential sale representing pure profit under PSR rules due to his homegrown status.

However, his recent emergence as a genuine midfield option has transformed the situation entirely. The teenager’s ability to operate in his natural position could save Arsenal significant funds in the transfer market while providing tactical flexibility for the crucial final weeks of the campaign.

Arsenal face West Ham on Sunday as they continue their pursuit of both domestic and European glory, with Lewis-Skelly now firmly established as a key figure in Arteta’s plans.