Rio Ferdinand baffled by Mikel Arteta’s treatment of Arsenal star

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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has expressed his bewilderment at Mikel Arteta’s limited use of Myles Lewis-Skelly this season, questioning why the young England international hasn’t featured more regularly for Arsenal.

Lewis-Skelly made just his third Premier League start of the campaign in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Fulham on Saturday, despite being expected to play a key role after his breakthrough last season and signing a new long-term contract in the summer.

The 19-year-old burst onto the scene last year, making 39 appearances after his debut in September 2024 and helping the Gunners challenge for the Premier League title while reaching the latter stages of the Champions League. His performances earned praise from pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, who named him their Young Player of the Season.

Ferdinand questions Arteta’s decision

Speaking on his YouTube channel after Lewis-Skelly’s impressive display against Fulham, Ferdinand couldn’t hide his confusion over the teenager’s lack of game time.

“I just thought how is he not getting more game-time?” Ferdinand said. “I just think the energy he brings to the Arsenal team, the aggression, he got out to players. I’ve been baffled that he hasn’t played more football for Arsenal.”

The former England defender highlighted Lewis-Skelly’s versatility as another reason for increased involvement, noting his ability to play both left-back and in midfield. Ferdinand also suggested that Martin Zubimendi has looked “tired and leggy at times” and that Lewis-Skelly provided the “right amount of spark and energy that Arsenal needed.”

Transfer speculation emerges

The lack of opportunities has reportedly led to speculation about Lewis-Skelly’s future, with Manchester United said to be monitoring his situation. However, reports suggest Arsenal would only consider selling the youngster for an “absolutely crazy” transfer fee.

Lewis-Skelly is believed to be keeping his options open regarding a potential summer move after slipping down Arteta’s pecking order this season.

Ferdinand acknowledged that if Arsenal go on to win the league, Arteta’s team selections would be vindicated, but emphasized his desire to see young English talent get opportunities. “Even talking just selfishly you want young English players playing and he showed he can play last season,” he added.

With Arsenal sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League and still competing in the Champions League semi-finals against Atletico Madrid, increased involvement for Lewis-Skelly in the final stretch could determine whether he remains at the Emirates beyond this season.