Bukayo Saka has shared details of his motivational words to Myles Lewis-Skelly before the 18-year-old’s standout performance in Arsenal’s emphatic 3-0 Champions League win over Monaco.
The game saw Saka score twice and Kai Havertz add a late goal at a vibrant Emirates Stadium, boosting Arsenal’s knockout stage hopes.
Central to the team’s success was Lewis-Skelly, a rising star from the club’s Hale End academy, who continues to make an impression in Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad.
Wednesday marked only the second start for the England Under-19 international, and he delivered.
Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly combined brilliantly with Gabriel Jesus to set up Saka’s 34th-minute opener, contributed to a clean sheet, and impressed with his composure before being substituted for Jurrien Timber in the second half.
After the match, Saka revealed the advice he gave Lewis-Skelly before kick-off. Speaking to TNT Sports, Saka said: “I told him this is his level and that he should have no doubts. He just needed to play with confidence. We all see what he does in training, and tonight, he proved himself. I’m so proud of him.”
A humble Lewis-Skelly expressed gratitude in his post-match interview, saying, “I’m proud of myself. I believe in myself, but I’ve come a long way. I want to thank everyone who helped me reach this moment. Hopefully, this is just the beginning.”
Reflecting on his assist for Saka’s opener, Lewis-Skelly explained: “When the ball was switched from Martin [Odegaard], I kept calm, avoided the press, and spotted Gabi [Jesus] pulling off. I played him through, and Bukayo finished it off beautifully.”
The young defender also spoke highly of Saka, describing him as an inspiration. “Bukayo has the mindset and skills I look up to. I’ve learned so much from him, and I hope to keep learning.”
With four wins from six games, Arsenal now sit third in their Champions League group, their hopes of progression firmly intact.