Myles Lewis-Skelly, an 18-year-old prodigious talent nurtured within the hallowed halls of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, has etched his name into the club’s future by signing a new long-term contract. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of a remarkable 2024/25 season, a campaign that witnessed Lewis-Skelly’s meteoric rise from promising academy prospect to a bonafide first-team player. His journey, which began at the tender age of eight when he first joined the Arsenal youth setup, has been characterized by unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and a burning desire to succeed. This new contract serves as a resounding testament to his rapid development and the unwavering belief that Arsenal holds in his potential to become a cornerstone of the club’s future successes.
The young midfielder’s burgeoning talent first caught the eye of the footballing world during the 2022/23 season, where he played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s FA Youth Cup campaign. His dramatic late winner in the semi-final against Manchester City, a moment of pure brilliance that etched his name into Arsenal folklore, served as a precursor to the remarkable achievements that lay ahead. His consistent performances throughout the tournament, showcasing a maturity beyond his years, solidified his reputation as one of the brightest prospects in the Arsenal academy. This impressive form earned him his first professional contract, a significant milestone in his career, six months after turning 17.
The 2024/25 season proved to be Lewis-Skelly’s breakout year, a period of unprecedented growth and achievement. He seamlessly transitioned into the senior squad, making 39 appearances across all competitions, a remarkable feat for a player of his age. His debut in a Premier League clash against Manchester City was a significant moment, marking his arrival on the grandest stage of English football. He swiftly followed this up with his first start in a resounding 5-1 Carabao Cup victory against Bolton Wanderers, further solidifying his place in the first-team setup.
Lewis-Skelly’s impressive performances continued to garner attention and accolades throughout the season. He etched his name into Arsenal’s history books by becoming the youngest player to start a UEFA Champions League match for the club since 2011, a testament to his burgeoning talent and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff. He also showcased his goalscoring prowess with his first Premier League goal in a memorable 5-1 victory against Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, a moment that undoubtedly ranks among the highlights of his young career. His performances in the Champions League knockout stages, where he contributed two crucial assists against PSV Eindhoven and Real Madrid, further cemented his reputation as a player for the big occasion.
His outstanding form at club level did not go unnoticed on the international stage. In March 2026, Lewis-Skelly received a call-up to the senior England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a momentous occasion that marked the culmination of his hard work and dedication. He marked his international debut in spectacular fashion, scoring a crucial goal against Albania at Wembley Stadium, a goal that also marked the first of Thomas Tuchel’s reign as England manager. This international recognition further solidified his status as one of the most promising young talents in English football.
The signing of this new long-term contract is a testament to Lewis-Skelly’s immense talent and potential. His journey, from a young boy with a dream to a first-team regular and England international, is an inspiration to aspiring young footballers everywhere. He embodies the values of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ambition to create a lasting legacy at Arsenal, to win trophies on the biggest stages, and to continuously learn and grow as a player and a person speaks volumes about his character and his commitment to achieving greatness. Arsenal have secured the services of a truly exceptional talent, a player who has the potential to become a club legend. This new contract, subject to the completion of regulatory processes, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Myles Lewis-Skelly’s promising career.