Arsenal Set to Hand Breakout Star Major New Deal After Stellar Season | OneFootball

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s New Contract Cements Arsenal’s Future-Facing Vision

Lewis-Skelly’s Meteoric Rise Earns Rich Reward

Few teenagers have altered the trajectory of a football club’s season quite like Myles Lewis-Skelly. Arsenal’s gifted 18-year-old, who burst onto the scene during the 2024–25 campaign, is now set to sign a new long-term contract that will make him one of the best-paid young players in world football.

As reported by David Ornstein in The Times, “The 18-year-old’s new deal will see a substantial increase to his current salary and make him one of the best-paid young players in the world, following his rise to prominence in 2024-25.”

Lewis-Skelly’s first professional contract, signed upon turning 17 in October 2023, was always going to be a short-term stepping stone. But the scale of his impact has been such that Arsenal have acted swiftly to reward him, both to recognise his performances and to fend off inevitable interest.

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Arteta’s Role and Family Influence

Integral to the negotiations was manager Mikel Arteta, whose trust in the youngster has been unwavering. Arteta fast-tracked Lewis-Skelly into the senior squad and used him in high-pressure matches, including Arsenal’s run to the Champions League semi-finals. His influence extended beyond the pitch.

As the article details, “Manager Mikel Arteta, who has a strong relationship with Lewis-Skelly, was crucial in the talks. The Englishman is represented by his mother Marcia Lewis, who negotiated the deal with Arsenal.”

This was a personal process from all sides, an example of Arsenal’s modern, human-centric approach to player management.

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Tactical Versatility and On-Pitch Brilliance

Although naturally a midfielder, Lewis-Skelly has been deployed predominantly at left-back this season, showcasing his adaptability. Despite never having played senior football before, his debut came in a high-stakes 2-2 draw against Manchester City in September. He ended the season with 39 appearances across competitions, highlighting both his talent and resilience.

His breakthrough moments came in European competition. Against Real Madrid, he was electric in both legs of the Champions League knock-out ties. His performances prompted admiration from fans and murmurs of interest from clubs like Real Madrid.

He also impressed on the international stage. In March, he was called up to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel and scored on his debut at Wembley against Latvia, becoming the youngest debutant to do so at 18 years and 176 days.

Arteta summed it up well: “In six-seven months, your career can change dramatically for the good, so it’s something for people to be inspired by. It hasn’t happened because he was lucky. He pushed for every chance to happen.”

Grounded Yet Ambitious

Despite his rapid ascent, Lewis-Skelly remains humble. His work ethic, tactical maturity and imposing physical attributes make him a standout. However, like many young stars, he has had to navigate occasional rough patches, including red cards and criticism over perceived arrogance. Yet there’s little doubt that Arsenal have unearthed a diamond.

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This new contract is not just a financial gesture. It is a statement of faith in a young man who embodies the ethos of Hale End—ambitious, courageous, and deeply connected to the club’s identity.

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Arsenal fans are rightly thrilled by this news. Lewis-Skelly has become a symbol of what modern Arsenal can be: brave on the ball, tactically flexible, and built from within. He’s not just another academy product; he’s a blueprint for the future.

Supporters will remember his Champions League outings and that England debut with pride. But more than moments, what’s impressed is his consistency across the season. For an 18-year-old to be trusted against elite opposition, both domestically and in Europe, speaks volumes about his maturity and technical prowess.

This contract renewal feels like Arsenal learning from the past, ensuring young talents are locked in early, rather than becoming transfer sagas waiting to happen. It also shows a healthy dynamic between player, manager, and family. Marcia Lewis deserves credit for navigating the deal with professionalism and composure.

The new deal reflects not just Myles’ ability today but the leader he could become tomorrow. There’s always pressure with a high salary and increased exposure, but if there’s one thing Lewis-Skelly has shown, it’s that he thrives under spotlight. Gooners should be excited. The kid is fearless, and Arsenal’s future looks all the brighter with him in it.