Arsenal’s rising star gets high praise
Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has drawn some serious comparisons between Arsenal’s teenage sensation Max Dowman and football legend Lionel Messi.
Speed and skill on the ball
Walcott, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, highlighted Dowman’s quickness when dribbling, a signature trait shared with Messi.
“What’s really fascinating is that Mikel Arteta will allow him to do that because that’s his strength. He carries the ball, he’s quicker with the ball. He’s like Messi,” Walcott said.
From pre-season standout to Premier League cameo
Dowman turned heads during Arsenal’s pre-season and recently made a substitute appearance against Leeds United in the Premier League, showcasing his flair and pace.
The Messi-like magic
Walcott, who once faced Messi, explained the unique quality that sets the Argentine apart—and now Dowman too.
“When Messi had the ball, he would just glide past people with ease. [Dowman’s] got that, he’s got the stop-start. He plays with that freedom, and you just can’t teach it.”
