SpotlightDaily Mail FootballUnverified source· 23 Sept 2026
Lewis-Skelly reveals Buddhist trick for beating big-match nerves
Arsenal's ice-cool defender says taming his restless 'monkey mind' keeps him calm before the biggest games.
M. Lewis-Skelly
player
Age
20 on Saturday
Club
Arsenal
Country
England
Position
Left-back / midfielder
What happened. Myles Lewis-Skelly has opened up on the Buddhist concept of the 'monkey mind' that helps him manage nerves and stay composed. The Arsenal defender, who turns 20 on Saturday, also credited mindfulness, journaling and a strong support circle for his calm approach.
- He uses breathing techniques, music and talking to others to settle his nervous system.
- He journals each morning and evening to be more intentional about his thinking.
- He is with the England squad at St George's Park and says he sees himself as a midfielder.
“There's a Buddhist concept; it's about the monkey mind.”
— Myles Lewis-Skelly
Lewis-Skelly is bidding for his first England cap in almost a year during the upcoming international friendlies.
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