'Don't forget that name': Rio Ferdinand says Arsenal player is a 'joke', gushes on his potential
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Arsenal have one of the best 15-year-olds in world football at the moment in Max Dowman.
Dowman is considered one of the brightest talents in the Gunners’ academy, and he has been training with the first team over the past year.
Arsenal could not hand him his debut last term due to age restrictions, but the youngster is poised to make his first-team bow next season.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said that Arsenal have produced another young gem in Dowman, who is one of the best 15-year-olds in the world.
He said: “This player played one pre-season game. I spoke about him in November and I’ve probably spoken about him a bit before that as well because I’ve seen him before as a young kid.
“Max Dowman, don’t forget that name. Arsenal have produced another young gem.
“He’s definitely the best 15-year-old in the country, probably in Europe right now, maybe the world.
“I keep seeing people say, “Don’t hype him!”… what are we in football for? What are we here for?
“We’re here to be entertained, to get excited about young talent. We’re here to talk about it, love it, appreciate it.
“We’re not putting expectations on his name or saying he’s got to play ten games or he’s got to score five, ten goals.
“I’m just saying I love him!‘ I want to see this, I want to see these young players coming out. He is a joke.”
Arsenal have found another exceptional gem in Dowman
Dowman is primarily an attacking midfielder, but can also operate in the number eight role or on the right wing.
He was brilliant for the development squads last season, registering 19 goals and five assists from 23 appearances.
The youngster also caught the eye at the Under-17 European Championship with England this summer.
He registered a goal and an assist during the 4-2 win over Czechia in the final group stage game.
Arsenal fans got the first glimpse of Dowman with the senior squad during the pre-season friendly against AC Milan this week.
The youngster did not look overawed by the occasion and impressed in his cameo from the right wing, replacing Bukayo Saka.
With Ethan Nwaneri vying for places with Martin Odegaard for the number 10 role, Dowman could develop as a right winger.
The youngster should get another game in Sunday’s friendly against Newcastle United in Singapore.
Dowman still has a long way to go to become an established first-team player, but Ferdinand truly believes he can be a superstar.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
The post 'Don't forget that name': Rio Ferdinand says Arsenal player is a 'joke', gushes on his potential first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.