Arsenal fans are ecstatic about Myles Lewis-Skelly’s last-minute goal that secured the club’s Under-18s a place in the FA Youth Cup final. The midfielder’s header in the dying seconds of the game against Manchester City sparked wild celebrations among the team and supporters alike. Arsenal have not won the trophy in 14 years, when current youth-team manager Jack Wilshere was part of the side. The team included players such as Luke Ayling, Henri Lansbury, Francis Coquelin and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas. Fans are hoping that Lewis-Skelly’s goal is a sign of another special crop of youngsters emerging from Hale End.
Lewis-Skelly has impressed throughout Arsenal’s journey to the final, and has been singled out by Wilshere for his exceptional talent. Wilshere said of the 16-year-old midfielder, “He can do things you can’t coach.” Fans have also been quick to praise Lewis-Skelly, with one supporter saying, “Been telling man, this is the future of our midfield, he has everything.” Another added, “My favourite youth Arsenal player I’m so happy for him,” while a third said, “When I was watching the game he was by far the standout player.”
Ethan Nwaneri is another young player to watch in the Arsenal squad. He made history earlier this season when he came on in the senior team’s Premier League win over Brentford to become the youngest ever player to feature in the division, aged just 15. Wilshere has praised both Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly for their ability to dominate and manage moments in a game, saying, “Let’s remember Ethan and Myles are a bit younger and how they’re able to dominate, manage moments in a game and drive a team is impressive.”
Arsenal will discover their opponent for the final on Thursday night when West Ham welcome Southampton. The Gunners will be hoping to end their 14-year wait for the trophy, and with talented young players like Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri in their squad, they may just have what it takes to lift the cup once again.