Arsenal’s Academy Thrives Once Again, Producing Future Stars for Mikel Arteta

Arsenal’s renowned Hale End academy is flourishing once more, playing a pivotal role in shaping the club’s future.

In this weekly football.london feature, we take a closer look at the youth setup, which is now more prominent than ever.

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s debut goal for England perfectly encapsulates Arsenal’s progress—both as a club and in developing young talent. The 18-year-old was handed his first senior start by Thomas Tuchel and made an immediate impact, scoring just 20 minutes into the match.

His instinctive positioning and attacking freedom, showcased from left-back, are testaments to the qualities that earned him his international opportunity in the first place.

Had it not been for Bukayo Saka’s injury, Arsenal would have had two Hale End graduates in the England squad, further highlighting the academy’s growing influence.
While one or two emerging stars may not seem extraordinary on the surface, Lewis-Skelly’s breakthrough—alongside Ethan Nwaneri’s rise—reflects the tremendous work being done behind the scenes at Arsenal.

With a clear development pathway in place, Arsenal continues to nurture top-tier talent, ensuring a steady stream of academy graduates ready for the first team. The club’s commitment to youth development is not only strengthening the squad but also reinforcing its long-term vision under Mikel Arteta.

As more prospects follow in the footsteps of Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, Hale End’s reputation as one of England’s premier academies continues to grow.