Arsenal could already have the next Kobbie Mainoo on their hands, but they will have to change their plan for one academy star.
Kobbie Mainoo has enjoyed a rapid rise recently.
The Manchester United midfielder is still just 19-years-old but has now established himself in the England starting XI at Euro 2024, alongside Arsenal star Declan Rice.
Certainly in the Three Lions’ semi-final triumph over the Netherlands on Wednesday night, the teenager was able to outshine Rice. The Arsenal man was far from his best, as he was guilty of losing possession in the build up to Xavi Simons’ goal for the Dutch side, and was also far too slow and cautious on the ball.
Rice will need to raise his game in the final against Spain, or Gareth Southgate’s team will surely be overrun in the middle of the park.
Meanwhile, Mainoo has impressed with his composure and willingness to progress the ball and try to make things happen. When Rice gets back to his best form, the youngster could prove to be the perfect partner for the former West Ham United man.
Mikel Arteta may well be watching England’s games and thinking the same thing. Arsenal have made signing a midfielder to complement Rice a priority for this summer. However, an internal solution may be possible.
Myles Lewis-Skelly could emulate Kobbie Mainoo at Arsenal
Myles Lewis-Skelly is one of the most promising youngsters in the Hale End academy system. The England under-18 international has risen through the ranks in North London as a midfielder.
Whilst the 17-year-old is primarily defensively minded, he is capable of making an impact at both ends of the pitch, and is technically gifted enough to make things happen on the ball in the final third. Lewis-Skelly has even spent time being mentored by Rice.
He may not be ready to make the step up to first team level yet, but has trained regularly with Arteta’s squad and has been named on the bench on numerous occasions, so is presumably close to making the step up.
However, Arsenal have recently opted to re-train Lewis-Skelly as a left-back, in an effort to upgrade the manager’s options in that part of the pitch. In truth, though, he is at his best in the middle of the park and could make an impact for the Gunners in that role. If Lewis-Skelly is to follow in Mainoo’s footsteps, then Arsenal will have to abandon their plan to convert him into a full-back.
Arsenal planning midfield overhaul
Arsenal have been linked with a number of potential midfield signings this summer. Regardless of any plan that may exist to bring Lewis-Skelly through into the first team picture, there is still a need for additional depth in this part of the pitch.
Mohamed Elneny has already left the club, and Jorginho is in the twilight years of his career. On top of that, Arsenal are keen to move on Thomas Partey.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
