Arteta compares Arsenal’s Max Dowman to young Messi as teenager commits future

January 30, 2026

TL;DR

Max Dowman, 15, has signed a pre-agreement for his first professional contract with Arsenal.
Arteta compares Dowman to a young Lionel Messi, highlighting his exceptional talent and composure.
Dowman is the youngest player to play in the Champions League and the youngest to start a match for Arsenal.
Arteta is advocating for an increase in Premier League matchday squad sizes from 20 to 23.
He argues that leaving out players impacts their mental health and that larger squads aid player management.
Arteta maintains regular contact with rival manager Pep Guardiola, comparing their relationship to that of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Dowman is currently sidelined with an ankle injury and unlikely to play against Leeds.

Continue reading the original article