Arsenal News: Rio Ferdinand Questions Mikel Arteta’s Use of Myles Lewis-Skelly After 2-1 Comeback vs Newcastle
Arsenal kept their Premier League title hopes alive on Sunday afternoon with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Newcastle United at the Emirates. Gabriel Magalhaes’ last-minute header sealed the win, ensuring Mikel Arteta’s side stayed within touching distance of league leaders Liverpool.
While the result delighted Arsenal fans, former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has raised concerns over Arteta’s handling of one of the club’s brightest young stars — Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Arsenal’s Strong Start to the Season
So far, Arteta’s side has enjoyed an impressive campaign. Apart from a narrow 1-0 loss to Liverpool in late August and a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Manchester City, Arsenal have picked up statement wins:
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3-0 vs Nottingham Forest
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5-0 vs Leeds United
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1-0 vs Manchester United
Despite this form, questions remain over Arteta’s tactical pragmatism and his reluctance to give more minutes to certain squad members, particularly Lewis-Skelly, who became a fan favourite last season.
Ferdinand’s Frustration With Arteta
Speaking on his post-weekend analysis, Rio Ferdinand expressed disbelief at Lewis-Skelly’s limited role so far this season.
“Do you know the thing I find mad about Arsenal? What’s Lewis-Skelly done? What’s he done? He came on in the 88th minute yesterday. The replacement is an Italian international in Riccardo Calafiori — a good player, don’t get me wrong. But surely you have to do something wrong to lose your spot?”
Ferdinand argued that Lewis-Skelly’s consistency last season, including his standout performances in the Champions League, should have earned him more trust from Arteta.
Lewis-Skelly’s Position Under Threat
The 19-year-old England international was a revelation last season, impressing both in the Premier League and Europe. Fans still remember his fearless displays against Real Madrid, where he looked composed at the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, with Riccardo Calafiori back from injury and Piero Hincapie arriving in the summer, Lewis-Skelly has slipped down the pecking order. He has yet to start a single league game in 2025/26, with his only involvement against Newcastle being a late substitute appearance in added time.
Ferdinand doesn’t believe Calafiori is necessarily an upgrade:
“No way. Lewis-Skelly is better on the ball in midfield and I didn’t see him get beat defensively last season except for a couple of red cards. He’s unfazed in big games. I can’t believe he’s not starting.”
What’s Next for Arsenal and Lewis-Skelly?
Lewis-Skelly now faces an uphill battle to reclaim his place in Arteta’s starting XI. Fans are already calling for the teenager to be given more opportunities, especially after Calafiori’s shaky display against Newcastle.
Arsenal’s schedule doesn’t ease up either:
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Olympiacos (Champions League, midweek) – Arteta may rotate his squad, giving Lewis-Skelly a chance to impress.
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West Ham United (Premier League, weekend) – A London derby against Nuno Espirito Santo’s revitalised side.
With Arsenal aiming to stay in the title race and compete in Europe, Arteta’s squad depth will be tested — and Lewis-Skelly could yet prove crucial.