Lamine Yamal has reportedly been impressed by Myles Lewis-Skelly’s performance after Spain defeated England 3–2 in a thrilling UEFA Nations League encounter at Wembley.
The Barcelona winger was one of the standout players of the night, scoring Spain’s opening goal after capitalising on an early England mistake. However, the match also provided an opportunity for Yamal to come up against several young and highly-rated players, including Arsenal midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Lewis-Skelly was handed a starting role in central midfield by England manager Thomas Tuchel, with Declan Rice unavailable. It was a demanding assignment because England were facing a Spain side packed with technically gifted players and featuring midfield maestro Rodri.
Despite England eventually losing the match, Lewis-Skelly produced a disciplined display in an unfamiliar international role. Reports from the match described his performance as solid, particularly considering the responsibility he was given against Spain’s possession-based midfield.
Yamal impressed by Lewis-Skelly
According to the storyline surrounding the match, Yamal was impressed by Lewis-Skelly’s confidence and ability to compete against Spain’s midfield.
The Arsenal youngster was given the difficult task of helping England limit Spain’s influence through the centre of the pitch. Rather than playing in his more familiar defensive position, Lewis-Skelly operated in midfield alongside Elliot Anderson.
That tactical decision placed considerable responsibility on the 19-year-old.
Yamal, who is also among the youngest stars playing at the highest level, is familiar with the pressure that comes with being labelled a future superstar. His appreciation of Lewis-Skelly’s performance would therefore underline the growing reputation of the Arsenal academy graduate.
Lewis-Skelly has already demonstrated his versatility at club level, and his ability to adapt to midfield has become an important part of his development.
A difficult night for England
England ultimately suffered a 3–2 defeat against the reigning world champions.
Yamal opened the scoring after Marc Guehi’s mistake allowed him to collect the ball and race towards goal before finishing. England responded impressively, with Anthony Gordon equalising before Harry Kane put the hosts ahead.
However, Spain recovered after England failed to take advantage of a penalty early in the second half.
Kane struck the crossbar from the spot, and Spain subsequently regained control. Alex Baena equalised before Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winning goal in the second half.
Despite the defeat, Lewis-Skelly’s performance attracted attention because of the role he was asked to play.
He was eventually substituted after 70 minutes, with James Garner replacing him.
Lewis-Skelly’s versatility attracts attention
One of the most interesting aspects of Lewis-Skelly’s development is his versatility.
The Arsenal player has experience operating as a left-back but has increasingly demonstrated his ability to contribute from midfield. His technical quality, confidence on the ball and ability to move into central areas have allowed him to become a flexible option for both club and country.
Against Spain, that versatility was tested at the highest level.
England needed players capable of dealing with Spain’s technical midfield, and Lewis-Skelly was given the responsibility of helping disrupt the supply into dangerous areas.
Although Spain eventually won, the experience could prove valuable for the young midfielder.
Facing players such as Rodri, Yamal and other members of Spain’s technically gifted squad provides a young English player with an opportunity to learn at international level.
Yamal’s own performance
Yamal also had a memorable evening.
The Barcelona star needed only two minutes to put Spain ahead after England lost possession in a dangerous area. His finish demonstrated the attacking instincts that have made him one of the most exciting young players in world football.
After the match, Yamal explained that Spain’s manager had instructed the players to press high and try to win the ball in advanced areas. His opening goal came directly from that approach.
Yamal also spoke about the importance of understanding his role depending on the circumstances of each match.
His performance against England once again showed why Spain continue to rely heavily on his creativity and attacking ability.
Respect between two young stars
The reported admiration between Yamal and Lewis-Skelly is particularly interesting because both players represent a new generation of footballers.
Yamal has established himself as a major figure for Barcelona and Spain despite his young age, while Lewis-Skelly continues to develop into an important player for Arsenal and England.
Their careers are at different stages, but both have already experienced the pressure of playing for major clubs and national teams.
For Lewis-Skelly, receiving recognition from a player of Yamal’s profile would be another indication of how highly his ability is regarded.
However, the midfielder will understand that one international performance is only part of a much longer journey.
What comes next for Lewis-Skelly?
England’s Nations League campaign continues with an away match against Czechia on September 29.
The result against Spain means Tuchel’s team will be looking to respond quickly, and Lewis-Skelly could remain part of the manager’s plans.
His performance against Spain could give Tuchel further evidence that the Arsenal youngster can operate effectively in midfield when required.
At club level, Lewis-Skelly will also be expected to continue competing for regular opportunities at Arsenal.
The midfielder’s development will be closely watched because of his combination of technical ability, versatility and confidence.
Final thoughts
While Spain deserved their 3–2 victory at Wembley, England’s defeat does not erase the individual positives from the night.
Lewis-Skelly was placed in one of the most challenging positions against one of the strongest international teams in world football. His ability to compete in midfield against Spain provided another valuable experience in his development.
Yamal, meanwhile, produced another decisive performance by scoring Spain’s opening goal and helping his country secure an important victory.
The two young talents therefore left Wembley with very different results, but both remain part of a new generation expected to shape international football for years to come.
For Lewis-Skelly, the challenge now is to build on performances like this and establish himself as a regular option for both Arsenal and England.
