Arsenal's rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly has found himself at the center of controversy after mocking Erling Haaland's signature celebration during Arsenal's commanding 5-1 victory over Manchester City in the Premier League last weekend.
The 18-year-old academy product, who has been making waves since breaking into the first team this season, scored during the emphatic win but drew criticism for his subsequent celebration. The young midfielder chose to mimic Haaland's meditation pose, seemingly in response to the Norwegian striker's earlier comments about Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta needing to "stay humble."
Liverpool legend Graeme Souness, while impressed with the youngster's potential, has called for restraint. In his Daily Mail column, Souness praised Lewis-Skelly's attitude but suggested the celebration was premature. "I like Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly. Attitude is oozing out of him and it's why I think he's going to be a real player," Souness wrote. However, he quickly added a note of caution: "At 18, it's a bit early to be going down the road of mimicking a player like Haaland, someone who's achieved great things in our league. Wait till you've won a few things in our game, son."
The former Liverpool midfielder's comments highlight the delicate balance between encouraging young talent and maintaining proper respect within the game. While Souness appreciates players with confidence, stating, "I love attitude in all walks of life – and not just in the football world," he believes Lewis-Skelly needs to "wind his neck in" and focus on development rather than celebrations.
As Arsenal continues to nurture their latest academy gem, managing Lewis-Skelly's early career development will be crucial. The young midfielder could have his next opportunity to shine when Arsenal travel to face Leicester City on February 15, though perhaps with a more measured celebration should he find the net again.
