Arteta Considers Squad Rotation After Arsenal’s 7–1 Champions League Win Over PSV

🕓 Last updated on September 16, 2025

Arsenal Champions League squad rotation could see Arteta rest Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly after historic 7–1 win over PSV in Round of 16.

Arsenal Champions League squad rotation could take center stage as Mikel Arteta prepares for the second leg against PSV Eindhoven. After securing a dominant 7–1 victory away from home, Arteta now faces a strategic decision: whether to rest teenage stars Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

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Arteta holds a commanding lead heading into the return fixture at the Emirates Stadium. With injuries to senior players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal relied heavily on Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly in the first leg. Both youngsters delivered standout performances, but their rapid rise has sparked debate over their readiness for sustained top-level competition.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown urged Arteta to give the teenagers a break. “They probably could both do with a bit of a rest,” Keown told MirrorFootball, citing the physical and mental demands placed on the duo.

Arsenal Champions League Squad Rotation: Tactical and Developmental Factors

Arsenal’s historic win over PSV marked the first time a team scored seven goals away from home in a Champions League knockout match. Nwaneri, 17, scored and assisted, while Lewis-Skelly, 18, played a key role in the build-up before Arteta substituted him early due to disciplinary concerns.

Lewis-Skelly’s temperament remains a talking point. He narrowly avoided a second yellow card after a reckless challenge on Richard Ledezma, prompting Arteta to act swiftly. The left-back has received two red cards this season, though one was overturned. Arteta later emphasized the importance of discipline, noting that aggressive play must be balanced with composure.

Rotating the squad could protect Arsenal from further risk and offer Riccardo Calafiori—who impressed off the bench—a chance to shine.

Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly Continue to Impress

Despite calls for rest, both players have proven their value. Nwaneri became the third-youngest scorer in Champions League knockout history, drawing comparisons to Jack Wilshere for his technical brilliance. Lewis-Skelly adapted seamlessly to an unfamiliar left-back role, showcasing grit and versatility.

Arteta praised their maturity and courage after the match, saying, “To be doing what they are doing at 17 and 18 years old shows incredible maturity. They take initiative and want to make things happen”.

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