Arteta coy over Lewis-Skelly's Arsenal future after 'emotional' celebration

Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly (R) (FRANCK FIFE) Mikel Arteta refused to confirm if Myles Lewis-Skelly will remain at Arsenal after the teenager's "emotional" goal celebration in a friendly against Como. Lewis-Skelly has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Chelsea after starting just five times in the Premier League last season. The 19-year-old signed a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium last year, but his struggle to hold down a regular place in Arteta's side has sparked speculation over his future. When Lewis-Skelly scored in the 1-1 draw with Como at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, the England international made a heart gesture towards Arsenal's fans in a move that was interpreted as a potential farewell. Gunners boss Arteta did not see it that way however. "It is good to score a goal, you should be emotional," he said. "I don't want to talk about any speculation. If there is speculation about any of our players it is a good sign. It means what we are attracting interest and we are doing a good job." Referencing Lewis-Skelly's extravagant goal celebration against Manchester City -- when he mocked Erling Haaland -- in the 2024-25 season, Arteta said the youngster's latest show of emotion was in keeping with his personality. "He is a very emotional player, remember when he did the hand gestures (against City)," he said. - 'Really consistent' - While Lewis-Skelly found it difficult to earn playing time in Arsenal's march to their first Premier League title since 2004, he did start their Champions League final defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. Lewis-Skelly broke into the Arsenal team as a left-back but during last season's run-in he was used in central midfield. He impressed in crucial league wins over Fulham and West Ham, as well as in the Champions League semi-final second-leg against Atletico Madrid. With Lewis-Skelly's future at the Emirates Stadium in doubt, Arteta acknowledged the importance of the teenager's versatility. "He's had a really good pre-season. We asked him to play in a different position because he played more as a No.6," he said. "We obviously lacked midfielders from international duty. I think he had a really consistent pre-season." smg/ea