While senior stars dominated the headlines, Rice was quick to highlight the impact of Myles Lewis-Skelly. After a breakout 2024-25 campaign, the teenager has largely been forced to play second-fiddle to Riccardo Calafiori at left-back this season. However, getting the nod ahead of Martin Zubimendi in midfield,the 19-year-old delivered an incredibly accomplished display against Atletico.
"We have always known what Myles can do," Rice said. "I remember last year when he played so many games. Last year when he stepped up [against] Real Madrid away at the Bernabeu at 18 - I thought: 'Wow what a player.'"
The England international credited Mikel Arteta’s tough-love approach for Lewis-Skelly’s continued development, particularly when asked to step into a less familiar role. Rice continued: "The manager has been tough on him behind the scenes. He has kept his head down and he has worked so hard. He is in early, gym and works hard. To be thrown in at the deep end and perform how he did is no surprise to me."