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Arsenal’s Left-Back Depth on Lock: Silvestre Says Miles Lewis-Skeli Isn’t Going Anywhere

3 December 2025

Arsenal’s Left-Back Depth on Lock: Silvestre Says Miles Lewis-Skeli Isn’t Going Anywhere
Arsenal’s Miles Lewis-Skeli remains a focus amid transfer chatter.

Arsenal stance on Miles Lewis-Skeli

Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has ruled out the possibility of young left-back Miles Lewis-Skeli leaving the club in the upcoming winter window, despite surprising rumors about interest from some Premier League clubs, led by Chelsea, in the 19-year-old.

Reports had claimed Chelsea were monitoring Lewis-Skeli's situation, despite Arsenal insisting the player is not for sale and will not go out on loan, especially after he recently signed a new deal extending to 2030.

Despite his evident talent, Lewis-Skeli has yet to feature in the Premier League this season, as manager Mikel Arteta prefers Ricardo Calafiori as the starting left-back.

Squad depth and World Cup considerations

His limited game time has cost him a place in England's squad with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

But Silvestre says his departure is out of the question, given Arsenal's situation and their aims this season.

The French defender who also played for Manchester United told Metro that he doesn't see Miles Lewis-Skeli moving any time soon. Arteta currently prefers Calafiori, but the latter has been injured before, and Arsenal cannot be short in any position while contending for the title.

Silvestre added: Arsenal is competing in four competitions this season and will need to lean on every squad member; when fixtures stack up and intensity rises, the squad depth will be tested in truth.

An upcoming Premier League matchup, Arsenal versus Brentford on December 3, 2025, 20:30, is displayed in a match recirculation box.

Punchline 1: If Miles stays, Arsenal’s left-back depth will finally be deeper than the bench’s excuses.

Punchline 2: Chelsea chasing a 19-year-old left-back is like ordering a teaser in a menu—hype, but who knows when the main course will arrive.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Miles Lewis-Skeli leave Arsenal in January?

According to Silvestre, no; Arsenal has publicly backed the player and extended his contract, and rumors of a move are viewed as unlikely at this time.

Who is Arsenal’s current first-choice left-back?

Ricardo Calafiori is favored by manager Mikel Arteta for the starting left-back role this season.

Why is squad depth a talking point for Arsenal?

Arsenal competes in four competitions, making depth crucial as fixtures pile up and the 2026 World Cup approaches.