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Joe Cole has cautioned Myles Lewis-Skelly and the rest of Arsenal’s squad that their ‘over-celebrating’ against Manchester City may come back to haunt them.
Former footballer Joe Cole has warned young Arsenal midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly about over-celebration following Arsenal’s remarkable 5-1 victory over Manchester City. Cole’s advice came during an episode of The Dressing Room Podcast, where he emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and composure, even after a significant win.
Lewis-Skelly, who has been making waves with his performances this season, found the back of the net against Manchester City and celebrated with exuberance, imitating Erling Haaland’s signature celebration. While the 19-year-old’s enthusiasm is understandable given the magnitude of the win, Cole believes that such displays of over-the-top celebration can lead to complacency and potentially backfire in the long run.
Cole, who enjoyed a successful career with clubs like Chelsea, West Ham, and England, acknowledged Lewis-Skelly’s talent and feistiness but stressed the importance of staying grounded. “Myles is a fantastic young player, and his passion for the game is evident. However, it’s crucial for him to remember that one victory doesn’t define a season. The Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint, and every game requires the same level of focus and determination,” Cole said during the podcast.
He further explained that excessive celebration can sometimes send the wrong message to opponents and fans alike. “When you over-celebrate, it can come across as arrogance or overconfidence. It might motivate your opponents to come back even stronger in the next game. It’s important to celebrate your achievements, but always keep an eye on the bigger picture,” Cole added.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed in his post-game press conference that he had discussed with his team the importance of appropriate celebrations and maintaining a professional demeanor. “We want our players to enjoy their successes, but we also need them to stay focused on the task at hand. Every game presents a new challenge, and we need to be ready for it,” Arteta explained.
Cole’s warning comes at a pivotal moment in Arsenal’s season. The Gunners have shown significant improvement under Arteta’s leadership, and the win over Manchester City has boosted their confidence. However, as Cole pointed out, consistency and humility will be key factors in their quest for success.
Lewis-Skelly’s journey in professional football is just beginning, and with the right guidance and mindset, he has the potential to become a standout player for Arsenal. Cole’s advice serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of balance in the world of sports. Celebrations are a natural part of the game, but maintaining focus, humility, and professionalism will ultimately determine long-term success.
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