Arsenal stars to protect Max Dowman in ‘remarkable’ PGMOL insider verdict
Mikel Arteta will require multiple Arsenal stars to help Max Dowman settle as the youngster becomes involved with the first team, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that members of the squad will automatically protect the younger players in the group at Premier League clubs.
Dowman is already being compared to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal by supporters, and having jetted out to Singapore with the senior team, he played a key role in the 3-2 win over Newcastle United on Sunday, 27 July.
After a goal from Mikel Merino and an Alex Murphy own goal, cancelling out efforts from Anthony Elanga and Jacob Murphy, the 15-year-old won the penalty, which won the Gunners the game.
Mikel Arteta’s side claim victory out in Singapore
While Arsenal’s win raised questions over Martin Zubimendi’s adaptability to the Premier League, the Gunners were hugely impressive against their opponents, and so too was Dowman.
Having replaced Bukayo Saka on the hour mark, the academy star was thrown straight into the action, completing several dribbles, getting shots on target, and winning multiple fouls in good areas.
Of course, one of those fouls won saw Joelinton give away a penalty in the final few moments, which Martin Odegaard dispatched from 12 yards, claiming victory in the pre-season friendly.
Supporters will be hoping to see much more of their talented youngster, with Saka, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Ethan Nwaneri all coming through the same system before breaking into the senior set-up.
Max Dowman impresses ahead of Arsenal breakout
Hackett spoke exclusively to Football Insider about Arsenal taking the youngster under their wings, saying: “That happens automatically. It’s remarkable that, in one of our top teams, we’ve got a 15-year-old breaking through and being involved. It’s remarkable.”
He will have another chance to impress when the Gunners face Tottenham on Thursday, 31 July, with matches against Villarreal and Athletic Club remaining before the Premier League kicks off.
Arteta has been very open to giving academy gems more chances in the first team, but with pressure building on the manager’s shoulders, the opportunities will need to be well-timed next season.