49 Myles Lewis-Skelly

Myles Anthony Lewis-Skelly was born on 26 September 2006 in the London Borough of Islington. His parents, both British-born, have mixed Caribbean heritage. While developing at Arsenal’s Hale End Academy, he attended Aldenham School in Hertfordshire, balancing both school and football commitments.

Club Career

Early Career at Arsenal

Lewis-Skelly joined Arsenal’s academy at eight years old, progressing through the ranks alongside close friend Ethan Nwaneri. The duo made their under-18 debuts together in a 6–1 win over Reading, both scoring in the match.

His performances in Arsenal’s 2022–23 FA Youth Cup campaign drew widespread acclaim. In the fifth round against Watford, he played a pivotal defensive midfield role in a 4–2 victory. Later that month, he signed a scholarship deal with Arsenal, securing his place at the club for two more years until he became eligible for a professional contract.

In the quarter-final win over Cambridge United, his display impressed coach Jack Wilshere, who praised him for his natural abilities. The semi-final against Manchester City saw him score a dramatic last-minute extra-time winner, securing a 2–1 victory.

Professional Career at Arsenal

On 5 October 2023, Lewis-Skelly signed his first professional contract with Arsenal. He made his senior debut on 22 September 2024 in a 2–2 draw against Manchester City, coming on as a late substitute for Jurriën Timber and receiving a yellow card before even touching the ball.

His next significant moment came on 25 January 2025, when he received a controversial red card against Wolverhampton Wanderers for a tackle on Matt Doherty. Arsenal won the match 1–0, and his suspension was later rescinded.

On 2 February 2025, he scored his first senior goal in a dominant 5–1 win over Manchester City in the Premier League.

International Career

Lewis-Skelly is eligible to represent both England and Barbados due to his mixed Caribbean heritage. During his youth career, he trained with the Barbados national team but ultimately pursued international football with England.

He represented England at the under-16 level before being called up for the 2023 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. In England’s second group-stage match, he scored a stunning solo goal in a 4–1 victory over the Netherlands.

On 6 September 2023, he debuted for England’s under-18 team in a 2–0 loss to France. The following month, he was named in the England squad for the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup. He later made his England U-19 debut in a 1–1 draw against Croatia on 7 September 2024.

Playing Style

A dynamic central midfielder, Lewis-Skelly is capable of excelling in both attacking and defensive roles. He has also played as a left-back for Arsenal’s under-21 team when required. Football publication Goal has described him as “excellent with the ball at his feet,” possessing “impressive technique and an engine that allows him to cover the pitch from box to box.”

His playing style has drawn comparisons to all-action midfielders like Arturo Vidal and Michael Essien, known for their physicality, energy, and ability to influence games at both ends of the pitch.