Arsenal’s youth revolution is showing no signs of slowing down, with teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly on the verge of signing a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium. The agreement, which is close to being finalised, will reportedly make him one of the highest-paid young footballers globally, following a sensational breakthrough campaign in North London.
The midfielder-turned-left-back has quickly established himself as one of Mikel Arteta’s most trusted players, with the Arsenal boss playing a pivotal role in securing this agreement. Represented by his mother, Marcia Lewis, who has taken the unusual step of becoming a licensed agent to handle his affairs, Lewis-Skelly is now poised for a well-earned financial and professional elevation.
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Meteoric Rise to Stardom
Lewis-Skelly signed his first professional contract with Arsenal after turning 17 in October 2023, restricted to a maximum of three years due to Football Association regulations for players under 18. Since then, his growth has been nothing short of remarkable.
Despite earning a modest £4,000-per-week (£208,000 annually), the English youngster’s performances throughout the 2024-25 season made an improved package inevitable. His new contract, while yet to be officially announced, promises to elevate him among football’s elite earners for his age bracket — a testament to his growing influence both on and off the pitch.
Standout Performances on the Biggest Stage
Breaking into a Premier League first team is never an easy task for an academy product, but Lewis-Skelly defied expectations. Making his senior debut in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Manchester City in September, he showcased composure and maturity beyond his years. Despite his natural position being in midfield, Arteta trusted him as a left-back, adding versatility to his growing list of attributes.
One of the defining moments of his breakthrough year came during Arsenal’s Champions League campaign. Facing European powerhouse Real Madrid, Lewis-Skelly displayed immense courage and technical brilliance across both legs of the quarter-final tie. His impact was so profound that Spanish giants reportedly began monitoring his development closely.
With 39 appearances across all competitions by the season’s end, Lewis-Skelly was no longer considered a prospect for the future — he had arrived.
International Recognition with England
The teenager’s rise also caught the attention of new England manager Thomas Tuchel, who handed him his first senior national team call-up during March’s World Cup qualifiers. Not one to shy away from the limelight, Lewis-Skelly scored on his debut against Latvia at Wembley, becoming England’s youngest-ever debutant goalscorer at just 18 years and 176 days.
His manager couldn’t have been prouder. “In six-seven months, your career can change dramatically for the good, so it’s something for people to be inspired by,” said Mikel Arteta following his England call-up. “It hasn’t happened because he was lucky. He pushed for every chance to happen.”
Hale End’s Newest Gem
Following in the footsteps of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe, Lewis-Skelly is the latest jewel from Arsenal’s Hale End academy. His ability to seamlessly adapt to first-team demands, handle immense pressure, and influence key matches has justified Arsenal’s eagerness to secure his long-term future.
What separates him from other young talents is his fearless mentality. Whether scoring a cheeky goal on his debut or standing up against seasoned European defenders, Lewis-Skelly thrives on challenges. Even during Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final loss to Paris Saint-Germain, his work rate and tactical discipline were noted as highlights amidst a disappointing result.
Despite occasional disciplinary hiccups, including red cards and media scrutiny for perceived arrogance, his humility and relentless focus have been applauded internally. With his new deal imminent, Lewis-Skelly looks set to remain a central figure in Arsenal’s plans for years to come.
Built for Modern Football
Lewis-Skelly might be deployed as a left-back by Arteta, but his natural instincts as a central midfielder shine through every performance. His passing range, particularly from the left-half space, is mature, incisive, and progressive. Whether feeding wingers with clever diagonal balls or combining with midfield partners, his distribution belies his age.
“Unflustered, press-resistant, and full of charisma” — traits that define some of the world’s best midfielders — are regularly on display when Lewis-Skelly steps onto the pitch. That level of technical and mental composure in such a young player is rare, making Arsenal’s decision to secure his long-term services an easy one.
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FAQs
How old is Myles Lewis-Skelly?
Myles Lewis-Skelly is currently 18 years old. He signed his first professional contract with Arsenal after turning 17 in October 2023.
What is Myles Lewis-Skelly’s current salary at Arsenal?
Under his current terms, Lewis-Skelly earns £4,000 per week, which totals approximately £208,000 annually.
What position does Lewis-Skelly play?
Although primarily a central midfielder by trade, Lewis-Skelly has predominantly featured as a left-back for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta.
Has Myles Lewis-Skelly played for England?
Yes, Lewis-Skelly made his senior England debut in March’s World Cup qualifiers, scoring against Latvia and becoming the youngest debutant goalscorer in England’s history.
Why is Arsenal offering Lewis-Skelly a new deal?
After a stellar breakthrough season with 39 appearances, impressive Champions League performances, and his first England call-up, Arsenal want to secure his future with an improved long-term contract reflecting his growing status.
