Myles Lewis-Skelly taps Buddhist 'monkey mind' as England hopes rise

On 23 September 2026, Arsenal’s 20‑year‑old left‑back Myles Lewis‑Skelly stood in a white jumper at St George’s Park, smiling as he prepared for England duty. Turning 20 on Saturday, the defender has earned a reputation for ice‑cool composure, and he revealed the Buddhist concept that steadies his nerves.

The Buddhist ‘monkey mind’ technique

Lewis‑Skelly explained to the Men In Blazers media network that the practice centres on the “monkey mind”, a restless mental state that jumps from concern to concern. “There’s a Buddhist concept; it’s about the monkey mind,” he said. “Whenever I feel a type of weight, I bring my nervous system down and restore stillness, using breathing techniques, music or talking with other people.”

He added that mindfulness underpins his routine, and that a supportive circle of people reinforces the principles. “It is definitely the people around me that help me with these types of concepts,” he said. “Practising mindfulness shows how important the mind is.”

England call‑up and positional role

Lewis‑Skelly joins fellow Arsenal teammates Ezri Konsa, Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the upcoming friendlies. Spain, the world champions, have named David Raya, Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi for the clash at Wembley. Tuchel listed Lewis‑Skelly as a midfielder, and the player confirmed, “I am a midfielder… at the end of the day it is all down to the team’s needs.”

The 19‑year‑old last appeared for England in October 2025 against Latvia in a World Cup qualifier. He arrived at Arsenal’s Hale End Academy at eight years old, progressing through the ranks to become a senior left‑back.

When asked what he would tell his younger self, Lewis‑Skelly stressed love for the game. “You just have to enjoy what you do. You can’t lose that love or passion, because once that love is out the window you may as well choose a new profession. Stay loving and stay true to your passion.”