Declan Rice compares Myles Lewis-Skelly to ‘underrated’ Premier League cult hero who Kevin De Bruyne called ‘best in world’

Declan Rice’s post-match interview following Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby was brimming with praise for his young teammate, Myles Lewis-Skelly. The Gunners’ triumph was a hard-fought and well-earned result, with moments of brilliance from key players and a spirited team effort that left fans delighted. Among the many talking points from the game, Rice’s glowing comparison of Lewis-Skelly to a Premier League cult hero stood out, sparking discussions among supporters and pundits alike.

The match itself began with Tottenham taking an early lead through Son Heung-min. The South Korean star capitalized on a well-constructed attacking move to put Spurs ahead, leaving Arsenal with work to do. However, the Gunners’ response was swift and emphatic. A defensive lapse from Tottenham led to an own goal by Dominic Solanke, leveling the scoreline and shifting momentum in Arsenal’s favor. Shortly thereafter, Leandro Trossard delivered a moment of magic, curling a precise 20-yard strike past Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky to give Arsenal the lead heading into halftime.

While Arsenal held the advantage at the break, the second half saw them solidify their grip on the match. Their disciplined defensive structure limited Tottenham’s attacking opportunities, frustrating the visitors and preventing them from mounting a significant comeback. Arsenal’s attack, meanwhile, continued to create chances, though several missed opportunities kept the scoreline closer than it could have been. Nonetheless, the home side’s composure and resilience ensured they emerged victorious in a high-stakes derby.

Declan Rice, a summer signing and one of Arsenal’s standout performers, played a pivotal role in midfield. His relentless energy, precise passing, and defensive contributions showcased why he has become a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s squad. However, it was his comments about Lewis-Skelly that captured attention post-match. The 18-year-old, who has been making waves since breaking into the first team, once again impressed with a composed and mature display that belied his age. Operating primarily as a left-back but frequently inverting into midfield, Lewis-Skelly demonstrated tactical intelligence and technical ability that earned him widespread admiration.

The young Arsenal academy graduate’s performance was not without its challenges. At one point, tensions flared as Spurs players ushered him off the pitch at the nearest exit point when he attempted to take a longer route to the touchline. Despite this, Lewis-Skelly remained unfazed, even hyping up the Emirates Stadium crowd as he made his way off the field. It was a moment that encapsulated his growing confidence and connection with the fanbase.

Rice’s comparison of Lewis-Skelly to Mousa Dembele, a former Tottenham midfielder and Premier League cult hero, added further intrigue to the youngster’s burgeoning reputation. Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Rice highlighted Lewis-Skelly’s ability to use his body effectively to navigate tight spaces and evade pressure. “He’s got that Mousa Dembele trait, to use his body to get away from things,” Rice remarked. “I’m not just saying it. But where he uses his body to get away from stuff, and sometimes it’s risky, but to show that at 18, and the personality and character, honestly it’s unbelievable.”

The comparison to Dembele is particularly notable given the high regard in which the Belgian is held. Known for his exceptional ball control, strength, and ability to glide past opponents, Dembele was a key figure for Spurs during his time at the club. His unique playing style earned him widespread respect, with Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne famously describing him as “the best in the world” in his position. To liken Lewis-Skelly to such a player is high praise indeed and reflects the potential that Rice and others see in the young Gunner.

Lewis-Skelly’s journey to the first team has been marked by hard work and dedication. A product of Arsenal’s renowned Hale End academy, he has steadily progressed through the youth ranks, impressing coaches and teammates at every level. His versatility, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair, has made him a valuable asset to Arteta’s squad. Moreover, his ability to adapt to different roles and responsibilities on the pitch has drawn comparisons to seasoned professionals, further underscoring his maturity and footballing intelligence.

In the North London derby, Lewis-Skelly’s performance exemplified the qualities that have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His calmness under pressure, precise passing, and willingness to take risks in possession were all on display. Additionally, his defensive contributions, including timely interceptions and tackles, highlighted his all-around ability. It is this blend of technical skill and tactical awareness that has made him a standout prospect and earned him Rice’s admiration.

The significance of Rice’s comments extends beyond the comparison to Dembele. As one of the most experienced and accomplished players in the Arsenal squad, Rice’s endorsement carries weight. His recognition of Lewis-Skelly’s talent and potential is a testament to the youngster’s impact and a signal of the high expectations placed upon him. For Lewis-Skelly, such praise from a senior teammate and established international star is likely to serve as both motivation and validation of his abilities.

While it is still early days in Lewis-Skelly’s career, the signs are overwhelmingly positive. His performances have demonstrated a level of consistency and composure that is rare for a player of his age. Moreover, his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure matches, such as the North London derby, bodes well for his future. If he can continue to develop and build on these foundations, there is every reason to believe that he can become a key player for Arsenal in the years to come.

The comparison to Mousa Dembele also highlights the broader context of player development and the influence of role models. For young players like Lewis-Skelly, drawing inspiration from established stars can provide a blueprint for success. Dembele’s career serves as a reminder of the importance of technical excellence, physical strength, and mental resilience in reaching the highest levels of the game. By emulating these qualities, Lewis-Skelly can aspire to achieve similar success and leave his own mark on the Premier League.

As Arsenal continue their campaign, the emergence of talents like Lewis-Skelly is a source of optimism for the club and its supporters. His performances, coupled with the guidance and support of experienced teammates like Rice, underscore the strength of the Gunners’ squad and their commitment to nurturing young talent. In a league as competitive as the Premier League, the ability to integrate and develop promising players is a crucial factor in achieving sustained success.

For Declan Rice, the opportunity to mentor and play alongside rising stars like Lewis-Skelly is undoubtedly rewarding. As a player who has himself risen through the ranks to become a top-tier midfielder, Rice’s experiences and insights can serve as a valuable resource for his younger teammates. His willingness to share praise and provide encouragement reflects his leadership qualities and underscores his role as a key figure in the Arsenal dressing room.

The North London derby victory, while significant in its own right, also serves as a reminder of the broader journey that Arsenal are undertaking. Under Mikel Arteta’s stewardship, the club has made significant strides in building a cohesive and competitive team capable of challenging for honors. The blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent, exemplified by players like Rice and Lewis-Skelly, is central to this vision. By fostering a culture of excellence and ambition, Arsenal are laying the foundations for sustained success both domestically and in European competitions.

As the season progresses, the focus will inevitably shift to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. For Myles Lewis-Skelly, the priority will be to continue developing and seizing the opportunities that come his way. With the support of his teammates, coaches, and the Arsenal fanbase, he has every chance of fulfilling his potential and becoming a key player for the club. For Declan Rice, the challenge will be to maintain his own high standards while also helping to nurture the next generation of talent.

The impact of Rice’s comments about Lewis-Skelly extends beyond the immediate aftermath of the derby. By drawing attention to the youngster’s qualities and potential, Rice has helped to elevate the profile of a player who could play a significant role in Arsenal’s future. In doing so, he has also highlighted the importance of recognizing and celebrating emerging talent in a sport that is often focused on established stars.

Ultimately, the story of Myles Lewis-Skelly and his rise to prominence is one that resonates with football fans everywhere. It is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the support of a strong team environment. As he continues to develop and make his mark on the game, there is every reason to believe that he can live up to the high praise he has received and become a player of genuine quality and influence. In the meantime, Arsenal supporters can look forward to watching his journey unfold, confident that the future is bright for their club and its talented young stars