Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has opened up about comparisons between Lionel Messi and Max Dowman. He stressed that the youngster should be allowed to develop at his own speed and played down the comparisons.
Max Dowman made a huge impact in the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Everton at the Emirates in the Premier League on Saturday, March 14. He came on in the 74th minute with the game still goalless. He delivered an excellent cross in the 89th minute, which led to Viktor Gyokeres opening the scoring.
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He then secured the win in stoppage time with a brilliant goal. Jordan Pickford came up for Everton to help them get an equalizer from a corner. The ball was cleared, and it fell to Dowman, who dribbled past a couple of players and finished into the empty net.
After the game, many even compared him to Lionel Messi. However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said on Monday (h/t talkSPORT):
“I think they have to cook at the optimal speed in relation to what they need and what they demand. He is knocking on the door at 16, saying ‘I am good enough and I can impact this team whenever it is needed’ and he is doing it when he is playing. We just need to bring the temperature down and understand what is the best thing for this boy at his age.
“He’s doing something phenomenal, we all know that. Let’s keep it down a little bit and respect his nature to do what he has to do which I’m sure is going to be something really good.”
With his goal against Everton, Max Dowman became the youngest-ever goalscorer in the Premier League at 16 years and 73 days.
Chelsea legend compared Arsenal wonderkid to Lionel Messi
Following his impactful performance against Everton, Chelsea legend Didier Drogba compared Max Dowman to Lionel Messi. He acknowledged that it was a huge comparison but claimed that the Arsenal youngster’s ability to glide past players reminds him of the Argentine.
In a video on TikTok, Terry said (h/t talkSPORT):
“I watched him play against Chelsea about a year ago, and I’ve not seen anyone glide past players other than Lionel Messi. That’s a big, big comparison, but this man is a proper talent, and he’s going to play a big part in Arsenal’s future, also England’s as well. But super, super talent and what a win for them today.”
Lionel Messi is regarded by many as the greatest player of all time. Hence, it’s certainly a big comparison for Dowman. The Arsenal academy graduate has made seven senior appearances, recording one goal and one assist.
Edited by Aditya Singh
