.jpg)
19 hours ago
4
Arsenal started the preseason with a lot of positivity registering wins over AC Milan and Newcastle United.
However, in the last couple of games they have faced narrow defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal which has led to negativity among fans on social media.
Amidst all the chaos, one of the biggest talking points from Arsenal's preseason has to be Max Dowman's performances.
Dowman is considered as one of the most talented players to emerge from the Arsenal academy and the 15-year-old proved everyone right with his stellar performances in the preseason.
On Wednesday, he continued his exceptional run with another strong impression against Villarreal after he was introduced from the bench.
The teenager produced some moments of brilliance with his silky footwork and also earned a penalty with a witty run into the box.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
In this preseason, Dowman has never really looked out of sorts as his technique and confidence on the ball prove that he belongs to this level at this tender age.
To put things into perspective, the 15-year-old made 27 touches against Villarreal, completed three out of eight attempted dribbles and registered 13 out of his 15 passes after coming on for Bukayo Saka in the 63rd minute of the match.
What did Mikel Arteta say about Max Dowman?
Following his performances in the preseason, fans want Dowman to feature for the Arsenal senior team in the 2025/26 season.
The same question was asked to Arteta following the defeat against Villarreal and he said, "Let’s see how it goes. Let’s go into Saturday, into the break as well. He needs a little break as well, because he hasn’t had any holidays, really. So, in the next few days, he’s going to have a break, which I think he needs. And then, following the week, he’ll be ready again to go."
"He continues to impress, without a doubt. The impact he had in the game again today, the efficiency that he shows in every attacking action, it’s incredible. Again, he deserves to have chances, and if he continues like this, let’s see what happens."
"I think the reaction [of his team-mates] is very clear. They have the ball, and they give it to him! So, that tells you how much they trust him, and I think the relationship he’s building within the team. So, I think nothing better than that. The confidence they show to make things happen, and the constant connection that they have with him."
It is clear that Dowman has earned the trust of the senior Arsenal players as they believe in his ability and talent as he has shown enough quality with his preseason performances.
While it feels like he will get some opportunities to feature for the senior in the upcoming Premier League campaign, Arteta also needs to ease him into the setup just like he did with Ethan Nwaneri.
English (US)