Arsenal icon Lee Dixon has thrown his weight behind Myles Lewis-Skelly, urging manager Mikel Arteta to hand the youngster a starting berth in the upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners’ academy product has been a revelation since breaking into the first team. Despite having only two Premier League starts by early May, Lewis-Skelly was thrust into central midfield against Fulham and delivered a standout performance in a commanding 3-0 win.
Since that match, the 18-year-old has become a regular fixture alongside Declan Rice in Arsenal’s engine room. His displays, particularly in the Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid, have caught the eye of the former Arsenal defender.
Speaking to The Athletic via Metro, Dixon expressed his confidence in the youngster’s abilities. “I wasn’t shocked because I always believed he had what it takes,” Dixon remarked. “This opportunity came from Arteta’s need for a solution, and Myles delivered in spades. He was simply brilliant.”
Dixon highlighted Lewis-Skelly’s composure and game intelligence. “His ball control and spatial awareness were exceptional—he was my man of the match in both legs of the semi-final. Choosing a starter for the final is a huge call, but I’d go with Myles. He’s shown he won’t be fazed by the occasion.”
The Arsenal legend even drew comparisons between Lewis-Skelly and England icon Paul Gascoigne. “I’ve watched Myles closely—he’s got that Gazza-like trait of using his body to shield the ball,” Dixon explained. “He lets defenders think they can catch him, then slows down, inviting contact, and bounces them off to win free kicks. It’s a remarkable skill, and he uses it to push higher up the pitch.”
With the final looming, Arteta faces a tough selection dilemma, but Dixon’s vote of confidence may tip the scales in Lewis-Skelly’s favor.