(Image: Alex Caparros\/Getty Images)<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/button><\/div>\n
Just look at all the similarities listed above. Most importantly, look again at the description of Yamal by De la Fuente. \u201cHe is different. He is a very important asset for the future.\u201d For Yamal of September 2023, read Dowman of March 2026.<\/p>\n
In terms of taking Dowman to the World Cup, the comparison with Yamal is not as straightforward. By the time Euro 2024 started, Yamal was a regular starter for Barcelona.<\/p>\n
But put World Cup 2026 to one side for the moment, England\u2019s upcoming fixtures are against Uruguay and Japan. It will be said that they are an important part of Tuchel\u2019s preparations for the World Cup and, to a certain extent, they might be.<\/p>\n
But wait and see how many established players cry off. My guess is half a dozen, minimum.<\/p>\n
What a great opportunity for Tuchel to get Dowman in the camp, watch him train at close quarters, and give him a run-out in front of a packed Wembley. The punters might even refrain from throwing paper planes if they get to see the country\u2019s most exciting 16-year-old footballer in action.<\/p>\n
What has Tuchel got to lose? And if he loves what he sees, take Dowman to the World Cup. The response to that is normally based on the premise that the 16-year-old has to be \u2018protected\u2019. Protected from what, exactly?<\/p>\n
Life in a luxury hotel? A game of darts with a media type? Jordan Henderson\u2019s team-bonding speeches? Daft photo opportunities that can involve inflatable flamingos? A private Ed Sheeran gig?<\/p>\n
Okay, he most definitely needs protecting from the last one of those, who doesn’t? But Dowman is quite clearly a footballer who now belongs in a senior football environment, whether that be for club or country.<\/p>\n
In terms of precocious talent, physical and mental maturity well beyond his years, and the potential to provide – as the Spanish coach said – something \u2018different\u2019, Dowman can be for Tuchel what Yamal was for De la Fuente. It is an opportunity Tuchel should not miss.<\/p>\n
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