The teenage sensation Lewis-Skelly has emerged as one of the standout revelations of the season across Europe. A key figure for Arsenal, he embodies the qualities of the modern fullback with his versatile and dynamic style.
Who is Myles Lewis-Skelly?
Myles Lewis-Skelly, born in Denmark Hill, is an 18-year-old footballer playing for both Arsenal and the England national team. He joined the Gunners’ academy at the age of eight and climbed through the youth ranks before making his Premier League debut against Manchester City on 22 September 2024, coming on as a late substitute for Timber in the 92nd minute.
His impressive displays under Mikel Arteta quickly caught the eye of England manager Thomas Tuchel, who handed him a senior call-up. He made his full debut in a World Cup qualifier against Albania, starting the match and scoring the opener in the 19th minute — becoming the youngest player ever to score on his debut for the senior England team.
Here’s a concise tactical breakdown of his playing style with the North London club:
Deep-Lying Playmaker: Building From the Back
When Arsenal are in possession in their own half, Lewis-Skelly drops in as a second pivot alongside Thomas Partey. He positions himself just ahead of the back three, receiving under pressure and helping the team build fluidity from deep. Remarkably, 54% of his passes are made in the middle third.
His job is to keep the game flowing, allowing players like Rice and Ødegaard to find space higher up. His central role opens up the left flank for 1v1 situations, while one of the center-backs covers the space he vacates out wide.
Technical Composure Under Pressure
One of his key strengths is how calmly he handles pressure when operating in deep areas. Whether playing as a false fullback or in midfield, he wins duels, turns on the ball with ease, and breaks the press with sharp dribbles — often leading the charge into the final third.
His tactical intelligence and versatility make him one of the most accurate passers (91%) and progressive distributors (4.98 per game) among Premier League fullbacks. A true dual-threat in Arteta’s positional play system.
Discipline and Defensive Balance
Out of possession, he shifts into a natural left-back role within a back four. He’s alert to switches of play and the combination plays that unfold down his flank.
He also plays a crucial defensive role during Arsenal’s attacking corners. Positioned as the last man, Lewis-Skelly is tasked with stopping counterattacks when the opposition regains possession — a job he performs thanks to his awareness and speed in transition.
Creativity in the Half-Space
Where Lewis-Skelly truly thrives is near the opponent’s box. Operating in the left half-space, he becomes untrackable — receiving between the lines, turning quickly, and threading passes through for teammates running in behind.
This is where his creativity and vision shine most: always looking to progress the play with purpose. When defenders give him time, he punishes them — either with shots, assists, or by creating big chances.
Room for Growth
Despite being just 18, Lewis-Skelly has already made his mark at the highest level, both for club and country. However, there are still areas to polish, particularly his 1v1 defending and aerial duels.
He struggles at times against tricky wingers who take him on directly. To counter this, Arteta often instructs Martinelli or Trossard to track back and double up — helping Lewis-Skelly manage these situations more effectively.
Without a doubt, Lewis-Skelly has gone from being just another gem in Arsenal’s academy to shining across Europe. A special player who embodies the modern fullback style to perfection: quick, intelligent, and creative