Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his delight with 15-year-old midfielder Max Dowman, whose pre-season performances have drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi. Dowman has showcased exceptional skill during cameo appearances against AC Milan and Newcastle United, sparking excitement among the club and its supporters.
Arteta highlighted the unique talent Dowman represents for Arsenal, praising both the club’s academy and the player’s family for supporting his early development towards professional football.
“Yeah, it is special. Obviously what he’s done today against this team in the time that he had on the pitch is something certainly not common to witness for a 15-year-old. We are extremely happy to have him. I think again the environment that he’s around in. His family, the people at the club and around the academy as well, super helpful because they put him into this position so early in his journey, having a real chance and a real presence when he plays for the first time.”
—Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Manager
Max Dowman’s breakthrough moments capture fan admiration
Despite being too young to officially debut in the 2024-25 competitive season, Dowman has used his limited minutes to make a significant impact. His energetic midfield display against Newcastle United helped secure a penalty that Martin Odegaard converted, leading Arsenal to a 3-2 victory. This glimpse of greatness has led fans to draw striking parallels between Dowman and a young Lionel Messi.
On social media, supporters have expressed their admiration, emphasizing his remarkable composure and game intelligence for a player of his age.
“Got excited that Max Dowman is the second coming of Messi then remembered he’s 6 years younger than me and now my day is ruined.”
—Arsenal Fan
“No words for Max Dowman. Athletically already PL level at 15 years old and he’s probably only 2nd to Messi for the ‘cleverest’ players I’ve ever watched.”
—Arsenal Supporter
“Messi wasn’t this good at 15. Max Dowman might just be his heir.”
—Football Enthusiast
“Seen enough, Dowman is the english Messi.”
—Fan Commentator
Arsenal’s plans and expectations for Max Dowman’s future
With injuries permitting, Max Dowman is expected to make his official first-team debut during this season, as he has won the confidence of Arteta and the coaching staff. His technical ability, vision, and maturity on the field suggest a promising career ahead, potentially placing him among Arsenal’s most exciting prospects.
Viktor Gyokeres’ stance on the Messi-Ronaldo debate and his arrival at Arsenal
In other Arsenal news, new signing Viktor Gyokeres was warmly introduced to fans before the pre-season match against Newcastle United. The Swedish international joined Arsenal from Sporting Club in a deal reportedly worth €63.5 million plus €10 million and signed a five-year contract.
Gyokeres, who previously expressed a preference for Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi in a 2023 interview, has been assigned the number 14 shirt at Arsenal. He is expected to make his club debut during the upcoming Asia tour and is the sixth new addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad this summer.