Arteta: Arsenal learned from Lewis-Skelly’s Haaland taunt ahead of Man City clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes his team will take lessons from Myles Lewis-Skelly’s provocative celebration against Manchester City last season as the two title rivals prepare to meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Lewis-Skelly, then 17, mocked City striker Erling Haaland by imitating his trademark zen pose after scoring in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Pep Guardiola’s side in February. The teenager’s actions drew criticism, especially given the heated rivalry between the clubs after back-to-back title battles in 2023 and 2024.

Haaland had earlier mocked Arteta with a “stay humble” jibe following a tense 2-2 draw at the Etihad last season.

Asked if he had spoken to his players about celebrations ahead of Sunday’s clash, Arteta said:
“Well that was done, and that’s part of it. There have been a lot of celebrations or non-celebrations in the past from a lot of teams. The experience is to learn and grow as well and we certainly learnt from that.”

Arsenal’s preparations for the showdown are clouded by injuries. Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Ben White all missed the midweek Champions League win over Athletic Bilbao and have yet to train.

“If there is a chance it will be after tomorrow’s session because they haven’t done anything yet,” Arteta said. “There are still a few things to clear and we’ll have more information on whether they are part of the squad.”

Meanwhile, striker Viktor Gyokeres is expected to be fit after requiring stitches from a clash of heads with Gabriel Magalhaes.

Off the pitch, Arsenal announced the departure of vice-chair Tim Lewis, a long-time adviser to owners Kroenke Sports. Lewis, 62, had played a key role in the club’s £250m summer spending spree alongside Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta.

Despite his exit, Arteta insisted his relationship with the Kroenkes remains strong.
“I have incredible gratitude towards Tim and what he has done for the football club, what he has done for the team, and for me personally,” he said.
“The club has a wonderful future. I am so positive about it… there’s no question that there are big things ahead.”

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