Thierry Henry has argued that Myles Lewis‑Skelly’s future may well be in the middle of the park after the teenager’s "outstanding" performance against Fulham thrust him into the conversation for a place in Arsenal’s Champions League semi‑final second leg versus Atletico Madrid. The 19‑year‑old made his first senior start in his natural midfield position – only his third Premier League start of the campaign – and was a key figure in the Gunners’ 3‑0 victory over the Cottagers. While Lewis‑Skelly has been listed behind Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapié in Mikel Arteta’s left‑back hierarchy this season, Henry was quick to point out how the youngster’s all‑round display in a new role caught his eye on Saturday. "I thought, like everyone else, that Declan Rice was superb again, but Myles was just different," Henry said on Monday Night Football.
He went on to praise the teenager’s composure, intelligence and work‑rate. "He wasn’t just comfortable on the ball – he read the game, anticipated passes, broke up attacks and then surged forward. He showed a maturity that belied his age. It’s one thing to be patient, it’s another to be frustrated by the circumstances, but he seemed ready for the challenge.
He didn’t look like someone who hadn’t played for weeks." The former France striker added that Lewis‑Skelly seemed to dictate the tempo at times, driving his team forward and even "bossing" sections of the match, which he described as "outstanding". That performance has sparked a debate about whether the youngster should retain his place over Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi for the crucial Tuesday night tie. Zubimendi’s form has been uneven in the latter half of the season, and the Spaniard appears fatigued after logging more minutes than any other outfield Arsenal player.
Henry admitted he is curious to see Arteta’s decision. "Because of the magnitude of the game, I understand if the manager opts for a safer, more experienced option, but this kid has shown he could thrive in a new position next season. He did extremely well.
I wouldn’t mind seeing him start, but I also recognise the need for experience in a semi‑final. Don’t underestimate that. Would I like to see him on Tuesday? Absolutely – why not?
Ultimately, it’s Arteta’s call." Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher also weighed in, focusing on the midfield partnership of Lewis‑Skelly and Declan Rice. Carragher believes the 27‑year‑old Rice, who has been deployed deeper in the last two games, should continue in the No 6 role for the remainder of the season. "Myles was fantastic, but the big story for me in Arsenal’s recent games has been Declan Rice moving deeper," Carragher said.
He praised the increased dynamism Rice brings compared with Zubimendi, noting the Englishman’s quicker decision‑making and sharper passing. "He’s a complete midfielder – comfortable both as a defensive pivot and a box‑to‑box engine. Watching him, you could tell he was enjoying himself, covering every blade of grass, getting into the right positions. It felt like he was back in his natural six role, making it easier to receive the ball and dictate play.
I thought his performance against Madrid was outstanding as well. Going forward, even if Zubimendi returns, I’d keep Rice at six for now." Carragher also highlighted how Arteta’s recent midfield tweaks have helped Arsenal bounce back after a 2‑1 defeat at Manchester City.
He noted a noticeable lift in energy against Fulham and a more relaxed demeanor, suggesting the team had been suffering from fatigue earlier in the season. "There was a period of about twenty minutes that was a little ropey, but overall the performance was a step forward, both in terms of result and quality. The energy felt back, and they didn’t look stressed.
I think the midfield needed a spark, and whether that spark comes from Lewis‑Skelly or a rested Zubimendi, the important thing is to keep the engine running." In addition to the midfield discussion, Bukayo Saka earned plaudits on Monday Night Football after scoring and assisting in his first start since the Carabao Cup final. Henry observed that Saka started the game a little tentative, but grew in confidence as the match progressed, ultimately delivering the second goal and setting up the opener.
"That’s exactly what I wanted to see from Bukayo – bravery, creativity, and a willingness to take on his defender. He needs to keep that approach against Atletico and for the rest of the season. Go back to what you do best: dribble, drive forward, be bold.
Defensively, the team must stay compact, but offensively, it’s about your instincts, your brain, and your imagination. I can’t tell you when to shoot, but I can tell you to be fearless.
Miss, get back up, try again." Overall, the conversation surrounding Lewis‑Skelly’s potential start reflects a broader narrative about Arsenal’s midfield evolution, the balance between youth and experience, and the tactical flexibility required in high‑stakes European fixtures. Whether Arteta chooses to gamble on the teenage midfielder or lean on the seasoned Zubimendi, the decision will shape Arsenal’s approach to one of the season’s most pivotal matches.