Arsenal Delivers Blunt Three-Word Message as Chelsea Circles Rising Star Myles Lewis-Skelly
Arsenal's response to Chelsea's reported pursuit of Myles Lewis-Skelly can be summarized in three simple words: "Forget about that," according to a recent report.
The homegrown talent penned a five-year deal extension during the summer following his impressive breakthrough campaign in the senior squad during 2024–25. Lewis-Skelly proved exceptional at left-back, transitioning into central areas and displaying the confidence on the ball that isn't always evident in a team shaped by Mikel Arteta's emphasis on possession and control above everything else.
The young player's performances earned him England recognition—highlighted by scoring on his international debut—and secured him starting positions in Arsenal's crucial matches during the season's climax, even when Riccardo Calafiori was healthy and ready. That hierarchy has now shifted.
Lewis-Skelly hasn't begun a Premier League match this campaign. While Arteta has utilized him in three Champions League encounters, Calafiori has reclaimed his status as the preferred domestic option, consequently removing the 19-year-old from Thomas Tuchel's latest England selections.
This situation has led numerous media sources to connect Lewis-Skelly with potential departures—whether temporary loans or permanent transfers. As The Athletic suggested recently, the genuine possibility of missing this summer's World Cup "could motivate interested clubs to make approaches." Chelsea have emerged as a rumored suitor.
Nevertheless, suggestions of Lewis-Skelly joining the extensive roster of players who have represented both London clubs has been firmly dismissed by Fabrizio Romano. The Italian reporter advised Chelsea supporters to "forget" any hopes of securing Lewis-Skelly, describing him as a development project Arsenal has zero plans to release anytime soon. Even discussions of a January loan were rejected, with sources from both club and player confirming this stance.
Where Myles Lewis-Skelly Could Get Games for Arsenal
The pathway Lewis-Skelly used to break into the senior team last season might offer his greatest opportunity this year: Calafiori's injury concerns. The Italian defender hasn't missed an Arsenal fixture yet but carries an extensive injury record, dating back to a devastating ligament problem at his childhood club Roma in 2018.
Alternatively, Lewis-Skelly might compete for a midfield role, having developed through the club's youth system as a holding midfielder. Still, it's simple to overlook the remarkable pace of his progression.
At the beginning of last season, the Hale End product was still awaiting his Premier League debut, never mind his European introduction. Less than twelve months later, he has featured from the start in eight of Arsenal's previous 10 Champions League matches.
As Lewis-Skelly reflected in October: "I'm relishing it this season. It's a new experience for me, not featuring as regularly right now, but I'm loving being part of this group. It's crucial to fight for positions and I'm naturally competitive, so I'll never step back. I welcome the challenge. Training with these players is fantastic."
That said, Lewis-Skelly isn't satisfied with his current standing in the squad hierarchy. "Ultimately, I simply want to showcase my abilities. Football is my passion and I'll never make excuses whether I'm playing or not. I just want to get out there and show what I can do. As long as I'm doing that, I'm giving the manager a decision to consider."