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Arsenal’s Youth Development: The Challenge and Progress of Myles Lewis-Skelly
Arsenal Football Club has long been in the shadow of teams like Manchester City and Chelsea when it comes to producing top-tier academy talent. While these clubs consistently deliver elite players who either integrate into the first team or are sold for significant profit, Arsenal’s academy has faced its unique set of challenges.
Recent comments by manager Mikel Arteta reflect the club’s struggles to emulate the success of renowned youth academies such as Barcelona’s famed La Masia. Post-Brexit regulations have imposed restrictions on signing players under the age of 18, complicating efforts to cultivate young talent.
Nevertheless, Arsenal is witnessing a promising trend this season, ranking among the top clubs in the Premier League for minutes played by homegrown talents. Standout players like Bukayo Saka, 23, and prospects such as 17-year-old Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly are leading the charge.
Per Mertesacker, a former centre-back and now the academy manager, has been closely involved in Lewis-Skelly’s development since the player joined the Gunners at the age of nine. Mertesacker notes that identifying a specific moment when a player is destined for the first team is tricky; it is a journey marked by various experiences, both victorious and challenging.
“I knew Myles from when he was an Under-12, attending youth tournaments where both the highs and lows were evident. It’s essential to understand everyone’s journey,” Mertesacker explained.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has consistently demonstrated resilience in the face of challenges, a trait that Mertesacker attributes to his ability to maintain composure in difficult situations. “Whenever we present challenges to him, he handles them well and appears ready,” Mertesacker added. “Staying calm during tough moments significantly increases the chances of seizing opportunities.”
Having secured his first professional contract in October of last year, Lewis-Skelly’s growth this season has pleased the Arsenal coaching staff. Mertesacker emphasized how Lewis-Skelly rose to the occasion when training with the first team, showcasing a willingness to learn and an admirable humility.
“His character sets him apart,” Mertesacker said. “He values those around him and continually seeks self-improvement.” This humble approach reflects a solid foundation that has contributed to Lewis-Skelly’s development as a player.
Lewis-Skelly’s mother, Marcia Lewis, deeply understands the complexities of a young athlete’s career trajectory. She operates NO1Fan.Club, a platform offering support for parents navigating the youth football landscape and shedding light on alternative routes for young players who may not reach the professional level.
In a conversation with BBC Sport last September, Marcia voiced her thoughts on her son’s journey: “He is not yet an Arsenal first-team player; he is still an academy player. While we support him, we recognize the immense competition he faces against highly paid athletes globally.”
Mertesacker affirmed the importance of having a solid support system at home for Lewis-Skelly’s success. “Unconditional support and a strong foundation have been critical to his development. Progress is rarely a straight line, especially when it comes to break into the first team and tackle its inherent challenges,” he noted.
Source
www.bbc.com