Rio Ferdinand has expressed his bewilderment at Mikel Arteta's handling of Arsenal's young star Myles Lewis-Skelly this season. The 19-year-old made only his third Premier League start of the campaign in Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Fulham on Saturday.
Lewis-Skelly's Breakthrough Season
Lewis-Skelly was tipped to be a key player for Arsenal this season after a stellar breakthrough last year. He made his Arsenal debut in September 2024 and ended last season with 39 appearances, helping the Gunners challenge for the Premier League and advance deep into the Champions League. Premier League legends Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher named him their Young Player of the Season, though he missed out on the official award to Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers.
Frustrating Campaign
His lack of game time this season has sparked speculation about his future at Arsenal, with reported interest from Manchester United. Ferdinand, a former Manchester United star, admitted he has been surprised by Lewis-Skelly's limited opportunities. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: 'I just thought how is he not getting more game-time? The energy he brings, the aggression, he got out to players. I've been baffled that he hasn't played more football for Arsenal.'
Ferdinand added: 'If you think about what he did last season, he was arguably the best young player in the Premier League. What's he done wrong not to play? Listen, if Arsenal win the league then obviously Arteta is right, but even talking selfishly you want young English players playing. He showed he can play last season. He can play in multiple positions – left back or midfield. Martin Zubimendi has looked tired and leggy at times, and Lewis-Skelly injected the spark and energy Arsenal needed.'
Transfer Speculation
It was reported last month that Arsenal would only consider selling Lewis-Skelly for an 'absolutely crazy' fee. The player is said to be keeping his options open regarding a summer move after slipping down Arteta's pecking order. However, more involvement between now and the end of the season could dismiss those suggestions, with Arsenal closing in on the Premier League title and competing in the Champions League.
Arsenal's Title Push
Arsenal's win over Fulham put them six points clear of Manchester City, who could only cut the lead to five after a 3-3 draw with Everton. Arsenal are also aiming for the Champions League final ahead of their semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
