In an exclusive revelation, former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has delivered a glowing assessment of the club's latest teenage sensation, Max Dowman, claiming the 15-year-old is already a better prospect than he was at the same age.
'I'd Never Seen This Before'
Wilshere, who now manages Luton Town, worked directly with Dowman in the Arsenal academy and recalls a specific under-18s match against Southampton as the moment he realised the youngster's extraordinary potential. Dowman was just 13 years old when Wilshere brought him on, defying instructions in the most spectacular way.
"I remember saying to him: 'Max, remember you are playing against players who are five years older than you... don't get into duels, just pop it round and have one or two touches,'" Wilshere recounted. "He came on and the first thing he did, he ran around three players, squared it and we scored. I looked at my assistant and I'd never seen this before."
The Making of a Top Pro
Beyond raw talent, Wilshere was keen to emphasise Dowman's character and background as key factors in his development. He described the midfielder as a "top kid" with a strong and supportive family, highlighting an anecdote where he drove the youngster home after a game.
"It's hard to remember he's only 15," Wilshere said, noting how Dowman tried to play Uno with him during the car journey. This grounding, combined with a genuine love for the game, sets him apart. Wilshere pointed out that unlike some academy players, Dowman is a genuine Arsenal fan who lives and breathes football.
The Perfect Role Model
Wilshere believes Dowman has an ideal mentor in current Arsenal star Declan Rice. Drawing parallels to his own career, Wilshere reflected on the importance of having senior players to look up to, citing Cesc Fabregas and John Terry as pivotal figures in his own journey.
"What better role model for him to be with every day than Dec," Wilshere stated. He compared Rice's potential influence to that of Mark Noble at West Ham, suggesting the England international is moulding into a similar leadership role that can guide a prodigious talent like Dowman.
With this stunning endorsement from a former Gunners hero, the future looks incredibly bright for Max Dowman as he continues his development at the Emirates.
