Jude Bellingham has reportedly praised Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, describing the versatile England international as a talented ball-carrying midfielder with the qualities needed to make a major impact at the highest level.
Lewis-Skelly has rapidly developed into one of the most exciting young players in English football. Although he initially established himself at Arsenal as a left-back, his technical ability, physical strength and understanding of midfield spaces have allowed him to operate in several positions.
Bellingham is understood to have been impressed by Lewis-Skelly’s ability to carry the ball through midfield and progress play under pressure. The Real Madrid star has experienced a similar positional evolution during his own career, having developed from a traditional midfielder into a player capable of influencing matches from advanced positions.
The comparison is particularly interesting because Lewis-Skelly has increasingly demonstrated the qualities associated with modern midfielders. He is comfortable receiving possession in tight areas, driving forward with the ball and helping his team move from defence into attack.
At Arsenal, manager Mikel Arteta has trusted the youngster with significant responsibility despite his age. Lewis-Skelly’s confidence on the ball has made him an important option in Arsenal’s tactical system, while his ability to play both defensively and centrally gives the manager additional flexibility.
His ball-carrying ability is arguably one of his biggest strengths. Rather than simply passing the ball sideways, Lewis-Skelly often looks to advance into space and break defensive lines. That approach allows him to move Arsenal higher up the pitch and create opportunities for teammates.
Bellingham himself has built a reputation around similar qualities. Since moving into elite European football, the England midfielder has become known for his ability to carry possession over long distances, resist pressure and contribute in the final third.
For that reason, Bellingham’s assessment of Lewis-Skelly would carry particular significance. Both players have demonstrated that modern midfielders are expected to contribute in multiple phases of the game rather than simply focus on passing.
Lewis-Skelly’s versatility is also one of the reasons why he has become increasingly valuable to Arsenal and England. While he can perform defensive duties from the left side, his natural ability to step into midfield gives his team another passing option during build-up play.
His development has also attracted attention at international level. England’s coaching staff have recognized his potential, and his ability to play different positions could eventually make him an important part of the national team’s future.
Bellingham’s praise would therefore underline the growing belief that Lewis-Skelly can become more than just a promising full-back. With the right development, he could establish himself as a genuine midfield option capable of carrying the ball, breaking lines and controlling the tempo of games.
There is still plenty of room for improvement, particularly because Lewis-Skelly is only beginning his senior career. Consistency, tactical discipline and experience will be important as he continues to face stronger opponents and greater expectations.
However, his technical ability and confidence already provide a strong foundation. His willingness to receive the ball under pressure and move forward has made him stand out among young English players.
For Arsenal, having a player capable of switching between defence and midfield provides valuable tactical options. For England, Lewis-Skelly could eventually give the national team another dynamic ball-progressing player.
Bellingham’s reported description of Lewis-Skelly as a ball-carrying midfielder therefore highlights an important aspect of the youngster’s game. If his development continues at the current pace, he could become an increasingly influential figure for both Arsenal and England in the years ahead.
