Lewis-Skelly Names Tottenham Star as Toughest Opponent He Has Faced

Myles Lewis-Skelly has surprised many by naming Tottenham's Mateus Fernandes as the toughest opponent he has faced in the Premier League, skipping over the division's bigger names to point to a rival from across north London.

The 19 year old, who has quickly become a key part of Mikel Arteta's Arsenal squad, already has a Premier League winner's medal, a Champions League final start, 81 senior appearances and six England caps to his name despite his age. So it was notable that when asked to name his toughest opponent, he didn't go for one of the league's established stars.

Speaking on the Men In Blazers podcast, Lewis-Skelly didn't hesitate when the question came up.

"Mateus Fernandes, when he was at West Ham," he said, referring to their battles during Fernandes' brief spell in east London before his move to Tottenham.

He also spoke about Arsenal's new signing Bruno Guimaraes, who arrived from Newcastle over the summer, describing him as someone he's excited to learn from.

"Bruno brings energy, experience, intensity," Lewis-Skelly said. "When I heard he was joining I was super happy because it's someone to learn from and pick the brain of. He's another winner, he's someone who plays in a similar position to you, so you can always learn from him. Being a sponge to Bruno is going to be really impactful."

Fernandes himself has had a tough time since moving to English football from Sporting CP in 2024. After suffering back to back relegations with Southampton and West Ham, he completed an £85 million move to Tottenham over the summer, but life under new boss Roberto De Zerbi hasn't been straightforward. He was substituted at half time during Tottenham's recent 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa, replaced by Mohammed Kudus after a poor first half performance.

De Zerbi explained the decision afterwards, making clear it wasn't personal. "I have a big confidence in Mateus, but I didn't like the performance of Mateus today. Otherwise I couldn't change," he said. "He knows. But it's normal. It's not an attack on Mateus, I love Mateus, it's not a problem. But I think for Mateus, we need more from Mateus. Because he can, even in that position."

Back at Arsenal, Lewis-Skelly now faces stiffer competition for a starting spot in midfield following Guimaraes' arrival. Although he broke through playing at left back, he sees his long term future in a central role and is keen to soak up as much knowledge as he can from more experienced teammates as he pushes for a regular place there.

He made clear he's happy to play wherever the team needs him in the meantime. "I'm a midfielder. But at the end of the day it's all down to the team needs. No player, no individual is bigger than the team goal. Whatever has to help the team, I'll do it," he said.