Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly delivered a statement performance as the Gunners secured a resounding 5-1 victory over Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, keeping their Premier League title hopes alive.
The 18-year-old midfielder, who had previously crossed paths with City striker Erling Haaland in a heated exchange at the Etihad Stadium in September, made his mark with a goal and a bold celebration mimicking Haaland’s signature meditation pose.
The match saw Arsenal take an early lead through Martin Ødegaard before Haaland equalized for City in the 55th minute. However, Arsenal responded swiftly, with Thomas Partey, Kai Havertz, and teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri all finding the net. Lewis-Skelly’s goal, his first for the club, added further insult to injury for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The teenager’s celebration was particularly noteworthy, as he replicated Haaland’s famous gesture, a moment that resonated with Arsenal supporters who had not forgotten the Norwegian striker’s “stay humble” remark directed at manager Mikel Arteta earlier in the season.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott hailed Lewis-Skelly’s confidence, stating: “His whole attitude stood out; he is playing beyond his age. He was not afraid of Haaland at all. He has confidence weeping through his veins.”
The victory narrows Arsenal’s gap to league leaders Liverpool, intensifying the title race. Meanwhile, Manchester City face a battle to remain in the top four, with pressure mounting on Guardiola’s squad.
The first time Myles Lewis-Skelly crossed his path, Erling Haaland demanded to know: “Who are you?”
Manchester City’s superstar striker was unimpressed to be confronted by the Arsenal teenager at Etihad Stadium in September.
That initial meeting came amid angry scenes at the end of an ill-tempered 2-2 draw at Etihad Stadium, during which Lewis-Skelly made headlines – before he had even played a minute of Premier League football – by being shown a yellow card while warming up as a substitute.
