The knockout round between Arsenal and Real Madrid has been one of the most surprising of the European season. The English team dominated from start to finish. They won in intensity, tactics, and also in individual quality.
Arsenal Left Real Madrid Without Clear Options
Declan Rice delivered a complete performance in the midfield. He prevailed in almost all individual duels and directed the pace of the match. In goal, David Raya excelled with secure and decisive interventions.

Martin Ødegaard, who was returning to Bernabéu, also showed technical details of the highest level. He moved freely and connected with his teammates with ease. Real Madrid couldn't find a way to stop him.
Florentino Pérez Took Good Note from the Box
From the VIP area, Florentino Pérez followed the performance of the Londoners very closely. Several names stood out, but there was one that surprised him especially. His youth, technique, and personality caught the attention of the white president.
Beyond the established great figures, there are gems that are beginning to shine. One of them was a silent protagonist of the European night. His performance did not go unnoticed by those who know the most.

Lewis-Skelly: The Gem That Fascinated Bernabéu
Lewis-Skelly was one of the great discoveries of the knockout round. The left-back, only 18 years old, showed character and quality with the ball. His physical display was impressive for someone his age.
Florentino was so delighted that he reportedly gave the order to follow him closely. The young Englishman has earned a place on the white agenda. His projection fits with Real Madrid's transfer policy.
Real Madrid Needs to Strengthen Their Defense
Madrid's defense is going through a delicate moment. On the right-back, Dani Carvajal continues to perform, but he urgently needs competition. In the center, injuries have been a constant this season.
Militão has missed much of the year, and Alaba still hasn't regained his best form. On the left, neither Ferland Mendy nor Fran García manage to convince. The performance has been very irregular on that side.
Florentino Seeks Immediate and Future Solutions
That's why the interest in Lewis-Skelly makes more sense than ever. He is young, versatile, and with evident room for improvement. Arsenal knows they have a diamond in the rough, but Madrid has already shown their admiration.
A Promise that Could Soon Land at Bernabéu
It won't be easy to negotiate with the English, but Florentino is an expert in these operations. If the young full-back continues to perform like this, his arrival in Madrid may be a matter of time. Bernabéu has already applauded him.
Florentino Pérez, who always thinks long-term, has detected an opportunity. Lewis-Skelly could be the next name to wear white. The future is written from now, and this story has only just begun.