Has Mikel Arteta's Tactical Shift Benched a Key Arsenal Star?
Published: 2025-09-12 08:02:42 | Category: Football
In recent discussions, Arsenal legend Nigel Winterburn highlighted how Mikel Arteta's tactical adjustments have impacted young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly's position in the team this season. Despite a promising performance last season, Lewis-Skelly has yet to make a start this term, with Riccardo Calafiori taking the lead as the preferred left-back.
Last updated: 11 October 2023 (BST)
Key Takeaways
- Myles Lewis-Skelly has not started any Premier League matches this season.
- Riccardo Calafiori has taken the starting left-back position.
- Nigel Winterburn suggests tactical changes have influenced this shift.
- Lewis-Skelly's strength lies in his ability to play more inverted and drive forward.
- Winterburn believes Lewis-Skelly will still see significant game time throughout the season.
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s Promising Start
Myles Lewis-Skelly, an 18-year-old left-back, had a breakout season with Arsenal last year, making 15 appearances in the Premier League and seven in the Champions League. His performances showcased his potential and versatility, earning him praise from fans and pundits alike. However, his absence from the starting XI this season has raised eyebrows among supporters.
Tactical Shift Under Mikel Arteta
According to Winterburn, a former left-back who knows the nuances of defensive play, Arteta has made a notable tactical shift this season. He has implemented a system that requires his left-back to maintain width, contrasting with Lewis-Skelly’s tendency to drift into midfield. This shift aims to create a more balanced approach, particularly when the left winger, such as Eberechi Eze, moves inward.
Understanding Inverted Roles
An inverted full-back role sees players like Lewis-Skelly occupying spaces traditionally held by midfielders. This can enhance attacking options but may leave the team vulnerable defensively. Winterburn suggests that Arteta may prefer Calafiori's style, which allows for more width on the left side, thus improving Arsenal's attacking dynamics.
The Impact on Lewis-Skelly’s Development
Winterburn emphasised the importance of versatility for young players at big clubs like Arsenal. He noted that Lewis-Skelly's ability to step into midfield from the left-back position has been a significant asset, but adapting to Arteta’s system may require him to refine his game further. The former player pointed out that Lewis-Skelly has been actively working on improving his crossing, which is vital for contributing to the team's attacking phases.
Calafiori's Role and Competition
Riccardo Calafiori's arrival has introduced healthy competition in Arsenal's left-back position. Winterburn acknowledged that the depth in this area is significant, with players like Ben White and Jurrien Timber also capable of playing both full-back roles. This depth allows Arteta the flexibility to rotate players based on form and fitness, ensuring that Lewis-Skelly will find opportunities throughout the season.
Expectations for the Season Ahead
Despite his current position on the bench, Winterburn reassured fans that Lewis-Skelly will have ample opportunities to showcase his talent. He noted that Lewis-Skelly initially gained his chance last season due to Calafiori's injury, suggesting that circumstances can change quickly in football. With multiple competitions on the horizon, including domestic cups and European fixtures, squad rotation is essential.
Lessons from Last Season
Reflecting on last season's events, Winterburn remarked that the dynamics of the squad often shift due to injuries and form. Lewis-Skelly's rise came at a time when Calafiori was sidelined, and similar situations could arise this season, allowing the young player to feature prominently again. Winterburn's insights remind us that patience is key for young talents at top clubs.
Conclusion: The Path Forward for Lewis-Skelly
The tactical changes initiated by Mikel Arteta have certainly influenced Myles Lewis-Skelly's position within the Arsenal squad. While he has not yet made a start this season, his potential remains undeniable. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see Lewis-Skelly's role evolve as he adapts to the team's requirements and seizes opportunities when they arise.
With the right mindset and continued development, Lewis-Skelly can still play a crucial part in Arsenal's ambitions this season. How he navigates this tactical shift will determine his future contributions on the pitch. Will he adapt quickly enough to regain his starting role? Only time will tell.
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FAQs
Why has Myles Lewis-Skelly not started any matches this season?
Myles Lewis-Skelly has not started this season because Mikel Arteta has shifted to a tactical approach that favours Riccardo Calafiori's style, which involves maintaining width on the left flank.
What does an inverted full-back role mean?
An inverted full-back role involves the player often moving into midfield positions, rather than sticking to traditional wide areas. This can enhance the team's attacking options but may affect defensive stability.
Will Lewis-Skelly get game time this season?
Yes, Nigel Winterburn believes Lewis-Skelly will see significant game time due to the demands of multiple competitions and the rotation of players throughout the season.
What are the key factors influencing Lewis-Skelly's position in the squad?
The key factors include tactical shifts by Mikel Arteta, the competition from players like Riccardo Calafiori, and the overall depth in the left-back position at Arsenal.
How did Lewis-Skelly perform last season?
Last season, Myles Lewis-Skelly performed well, starting 15 Premier League matches and seven Champions League matches, showcasing his potential and talent as a young player.
