Jamie Carragher has questioned Arsenal's decision to consider selling Myles Lewis-Skelly after the 19-year-old produced a standout performance in the Gunners' 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City. The reigning Premier League champions made a statement of intent by thumping Enzo Maresca's side in a one-sided match at Wembley.
Lewis-Skelly's Assist Sets the Tone
Lewis-Skelly, who broke into Arsenal's team as a central midfielder towards the end of last season, found Riccardo Calafiori with a brilliant assist as Arsenal took the lead inside the first 30 seconds. Kai Havertz doubled Arsenal's advantage midway through the first half, and Martin Odegaard added a third after half-time.
The performance was a hugely impressive one for Arsenal and a worrying display for Manchester City, who appointed Maresca to replace club legend Pep Guardiola. Lewis-Skelly started alongside summer signing Bruno Guimaraes and picked up from where he left off at the end of last season, when he helped the Gunners win the title and reach the Champions League final.
Carragher and McCoist Praise the Teenager
Carragher was impressed by Lewis-Skelly's display and questioned Arsenal's transfer stance on the academy graduate. Writing on social media, Carragher said: 'MLS role in that Arsenal goal! Are Arsenal really looking to push him out'.
Scottish football legend Ally McCoist also praised Lewis-Skelly, speaking on TNT Sports commentary: 'I think he's been outstanding, I really do. I think he's been terrific.'
Transfer Speculation and Rodri Warning
Lewis-Skelly was reportedly offered to both Chelsea and Manchester United last week, but both clubs resisted the temptation to enter into talks. It was also claimed that Arsenal wanted just £45m for the England international, who has earned six caps but was left out of Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad.
Carragher also had a message for Manchester City after their humbling defeat, simply saying they 'have to keep Rodri'. The Spanish World Cup winner missed the Community Shield amid intense speculation he is set to join La Liga champions Barcelona.
What's Next for Both Clubs
After a promising Community Shield win, Arsenal kick-start their Premier League title defence against newly-promoted Coventry City on Friday night. Manchester City, who finished second last season seven points behind Arsenal, welcome Bournemouth to the Etihad Stadium on the opening weekend.
