Arsenal prodigy Max Dowman has been deemed one of the best academy stars in the Premier League and it’s easy to see why.
Max Dowman has been breaking records for Arsenal, making his Under-18s debut aged 13 and featuring for both the Under-19s and Under-21s at 14 years of age.
In addition, Dowman is the youngest ever UEFA Youth League scorer and is also the youngest ever player to feature for any club in the Premier League 2 since it was formed in 2012.
English football rules meant Mikel Arteta couldn’t hand Dowman his competitive debut last season, but now he’s a U16s player, he is permitted to play in the Premier League and cup competitions.
Former Arsenal academy coach Temisan Williams has now spoken about his time coaching Dowman and shared how he feels Arteta can get the best out of the academy star.
Max Dowman up against Djed Spence during Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur in Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Max Dowman has ‘champion mentality in bucket loads’
Williams coached Dowman at Under-11 level and he knew straight away that the young player had the X-factor.
Dowman impressed in Arsenal’s pre-season games in the United States, not looking out of place in the slightest among his more experienced peers.
Williams, speaking to Sky Sports, was asked how far Dowman could potentially go and he replied: “Champions League, World Cup, Premier League.
“He’s got all the capabilities; he’s got the mentality. Mikel Arteta wouldn’t bring him into the fold at that age if he didn’t.”
Williams continued: “He has champion mentality in bucket loads.
“It’s not just about wanting to win on the pitch. It’s about: ‘I want the next challenge. When is this next challenge coming?’
“And Max always wanted a challenge, no matter what.”
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Max Dowman’s best position on the pitch
Dowman has made a name for himself as a versatile player who has featured at No. 8, No. 10 and on the right flank in matches.
Williams revealed how, when Dowman was younger, he also played as a centre-forward, a No. 6, and even at centre-back.
And when asked for his thoughts on Dowman’s best position, Williams said: “If you had to pin me down, I would probably say as a No 8.
“His strength is his ball-carrying skills, especially centrally. And I think the No 8 position is where you’ll see the best of Max.”
After seeing his performances on the right wing, it would be tempting to keep deploying Dowman in that role, but he has shown in the academy that he is brilliant as a number 10 too.
Versatility is more important than ever in modern football, which is another important thing Dowman has in his game that could see him enjoy a bright future.