Gabriel Jesus Calls Max Dowman's Arsenal Rise 'Crazy' After Teen's Record

Gabriel Jesus Hails Max Dowman's 'Crazy' Arsenal Emergence

Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has expressed sheer amazement at the meteoric rise of teenage sensation Max Dowman, labelling the youngster's journey as "crazy" following his historic entry into the Premier League record books. The 16-year-old winger secured his place in football history by becoming the competition's youngest-ever goalscorer during a 2-0 victory over Everton in March.

Dowman's Stunning Introduction to Top-Flight Football

Max Dowman made his Premier League debut on August 23, coming off the bench in the 64th minute during Arsenal's commanding 5-0 win against Leeds United. Since that initial appearance, the talented teenager has accumulated seven first-team outings for Mikel Arteta's side, contributing both a goal and an assist to underline his growing influence.

During a candid conversation on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Gabriel Jesus revealed his genuine astonishment upon discovering that Dowman continues to attend school despite his burgeoning football career. The Brazilian international shared a remarkable insight into their post-match interactions.

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Jesus said: "Max is still 16. He started with us at 15. I told you before. When I was 15, I was playing in the streets. I didn't make it yet. It's crazy. So at 15, you are playing Champions League, Premier League, it's crazy. And I ask him after the game, he scored, I say, 'how was school today?' Because it was Sunday, and then Monday I say, 'how was school today?' And he was like, 'no, I'm going later.' I say, 'oh, okay.' Because in Brazil, if this happens, it's impossible to go to school. It's impossible."

International Recognition and Future Prospects

The promising winger's exceptional form earned him a call-up to the England Under-19 squad during the recent international break, where he showcased his talent by scoring a superb goal in a UEFA European Championship qualifying fixture against Portugal. Dowman's next opportunity to impress could come in the FA Cup quarter-finals away at Southampton on Saturday evening.

This season, the teenage prodigy has already made one FA Cup start for Arsenal, featuring for 77 minutes in their 2-1 fifth-round victory over Mansfield Town earlier this month. Jesus concluded his praise by emphasising Dowman's undeniable quality and potential, stating: "The people, the fans, yeah. It's impossible. So he's very good, Max, very good. And he's there. He's there, definitely. He's there."

The Arsenal forward's admiration highlights how Dowman's remarkable balancing act between academic commitments and professional football has captivated both teammates and supporters alike, marking him as one of English football's most exciting emerging talents.