Why Myles Lewis-Skelly could prove a solution to Arsenal’s future midfield problem

Over recent years, Arsenal’s Hale End academy has produced a number of talents who have made it through to the first team. Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah have all played a role in the team’s success this season and are a testament to the quality of the academy.

Despite signing Jorginho from Chelsea for £12m in the January transfer window, Arsenal’s midfield could do with further improvement. The ageing trio of Granit Xhaka, Jorginho and Mohamed Elneny provide a solution for the short-term, but the long-term midfield needs addressing.

Arsenal have been linked with Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice, both of whom would cost a huge financial sum to acquire from Brighton and West Ham respectively. This is where Mikel Arteta could turn to Hale End instead.

Why Myles Lewis-Skelly could prove a solution to Arsenal’s future midfield problem

Myles Lewis-Skelly, aged just 16, was vital in the side’s turnaround against Watford in the FA Youth Cup, where the Gunners came from 2-0 down to win 4-2. Lewis-Skelly’s defensive prowess was on display against the Hornets, as he impressed many Arsenal fans.

There is no doubt that the youngster wouldn’t offer as much to the team as signing either Caicedo or Rice would – let’s make that clear. Nonetheless, if he does continue to develop and impress, the cover he could help bring would strengthen Arsenal’s midfield depth further. This is something that needs to be addressed.

If Lewis-Skelly does come into the side in the coming years, he will provide increased depth as he can play both as a No 6 and No 8.

Arteta has a history of bringing youth players through. The Spaniard brought Ethan Nwaneri on as a substitute against Brentford to make him the youngest Premier League player of all time. In other words, Arteta trusts the academy and the players it brings through; just look at how Folarin Balogun is getting on in France.