Max Dowman has ‘special gift’, says Arteta after Lionel Messi recognition

Max Dowman has received backing from Mikel Arteta after Lionel Messi included the Arsenal teenager among ten young players tipped for future success.

The 16-year-old features in Messi’s latest Adidas campaign, prompting Arteta to welcome the recognition ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Lille.

“His eyes are I think better than anybody else’s. Hopefully he’s right,” Arteta said of Messi, in comments reported by the Standard.

Arteta explains Max Dowman’s ‘special gift’

Arteta highlighted Dowman’s movement, touch and composure when asked what might have caught Messi’s attention.

The Arsenal manager believes the youngster has already demonstrated unusual ability in his limited first-team appearances, describing him as possessing a “special gift”.

Dowman scored twice in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup victory over Ipswich earlier this season, following a breakthrough campaign in which he made his competitive debut aged 15.

He subsequently became the youngest player to appear in the Champions League and the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history.

Arsenal prepare for Lille test

The praise comes as Arsenal seek a second successive Champions League victory, having opened their league-phase campaign with a 1–0 win at Napoli.

Arteta’s selection options have been reduced by ankle injuries to Piero Hincapie and Martin Zubimendi, with both unavailable against Lille.

Dowman’s involvement will depend on the manager’s team selection, but the fixture offers another potential opportunity to build his European experience.

Tuesday’s match kicks off at 8pm BST at Emirates Stadium. Our Arsenal vs Lille viewing guide has the UK television and streaming details.