Mikel Arteta has made a striking comparison between teenage prospect Max Dowman and Barcelona great Lionel Messi after the 16-year-old signed his first pre-contract at Arsenal.
Dowman, who is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the club’s academy, has now committed his short-term future to the Gunners. The pre-contract agreement is a key step for the youngster as he continues his development in north London.
Speaking about Dowman, Arteta pointed to traits that reminded him of Messi and the way the Argentine used to influence games at Barcelona. The Arsenal manager highlighted the teenager’s ability to make a difference in tight spaces and his natural feel for the ball, drawing the headline comparison to one of football’s most famous names.
Arteta’s comments came in the wake of the pre-contract being signed, with Arsenal keen to keep hold of the highly-rated 16-year-old as he progresses through the age groups. The deal ensures Dowman remains part of the club’s long-term plans, with the academy continuing to be an important pathway into the first team under Arteta.
The Arsenal boss has regularly stressed the value of bringing young players through, and Dowman’s agreement is the latest sign of the club’s intent to tie down top prospects early. For the teenager, it marks a major moment in his career, while Arteta’s Messi comparison underlines just how highly he is rated inside the club.
