Bukayo Saka heaped praise on Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, after the 18-year-old played a starring role in the Gunners’ 3-0 UEFA Champions League win over Monaco at the Emirates Stadium. The England U19 international was making his first start in the competition, and played a vital role in the opening goal of the game. Saka believes he has a “very bright” future.

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Myles Lewis-Skelly during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Arsenal FC and AS Monaco at Emirates Stadium on December 11, 2024 in London, England.

Bukayo Saka believes team-mate Myles Lewis-Skelly could be an Arsenal star for years to come.The 18-year-old made his first start in the UEFA Champions League as the Gunners beat Monaco 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. It leaves them in third place in the table, and with a strong chance of reaching the last 16 of the competition without the need for a play-off.

Despite a dominant attacking display, it was midfielder – operating at full-back – Lewis-Skelly’s performance that left the home crowd – and Saka – purring.”It’s very bright,” he told TNT Sports of the youngster’s future. “He just needs to keep the same head that he’s got.”His mentality’s top. He’s always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.”

Arsenal opened the scoring when Saka converted at the back post from Gabriel Jesus’ cross.But Lewis-Skelly, an England U19 international, had a big hand in the goal, making the initial pass to the Brazil international.”I saw the ball getting switched over from Martin [Odegaard], I saw I was getting pressed,” Lewis-Skelly told TNT Sports. “So I just thought ‘keep calm, take that man, take the ball away from him,’ and I saw Gabby pealing off.”Then I played it through, and Bukayo, great timing for the finish. He’s always there. I can’t complain.”Saka could barely miss, converting into an empty net from just yards out. He celebrated by making a beeline for Lewis-Skelly to congratulate him on his impact.Ashworth’s Man Utd exit is ‘bad situation’ but ‘doesn’t change anything’ – AmorimPostecoglou reveals Romero apology, injury woes ahead of Rangers clash’We can do many things better’ – Maresca says Chelsea are ‘ahead of expectations’ but can improve”I just said to him, like I said to him before the game, that this is his level,” the England star continued.”He needs to have no doubts and play with confidence. What he’s doing, we see it in training.”I was pleased with him and he was a big part in the first goal.”Lewis-Skelly, beaming alongside his team-mate, added: “I’m proud of myself. I believe in myself. I’ve come along way.”I just want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity, and hopefully it’s the first of many and I push on from here.”Looking up to Bukayo, he has everything. It’s just a mindset that I can learn a lot from him. I want to keep learning from him.”

‘He’s one of our own’

Lewis-Skelly also got some special words of praise from manager Mikel Arteta.The Gunners boss handed the 18-year-old his first team debut earlier this season, coming on as a substitute in a 2-2 draw against Manchester City in the Premier League.He has made one further appearance from the bench in the top flight, alongside a couple of Carabao Cup showings. Arteta said he is proud of the impact the player made.”First of all, a word for him,” he told TNT Sports. “At 18-years-old, to make his debut in the Champions League is a great highlight of the game.”What I like about this is courage. The position that he takes, how he penetrates with the ball.”He’s one of our own. He has a bright future ahead of him. He’s great.”As a manager, as a club, I think we have to be very pleased to see those young players coming through, because it’s a nice feeling to be able to help somebody change his life.”Arsenal were in a precarious position with a slender 1-0 lead at the break, but Saka doubled his tally in the second half.A late own goal then completed a 3-0 victory for the Gunners. And turning his focus to Saka, Arteta hailed the achievements of the forward so far this season.”He looks really mature,” he added. “What he’s already done in the game is incredible.”His goal involvement in the season, in 21 matches, I think it’s 20 goals or something ridiculous like this. That’s him.”He’s very humble, a great guy to have around the place and an incredible talent.”In his role, I think his leadership is increasing. With the young kids it’s amazing, with the seniors it’s amazing.”He’s adored by everybody. You can tell that. When he’s on that pitch, he’s making a difference for us.”