Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has called for patience regarding young talent Max Dowman, who has made a strong impression during the team’s pre-season tour.
Dowman was quickly integrated into Mikel Arteta’s main squad after standing out against elite teams in Asia. He earned a penalty in the 3-2 win over Newcastle United and showed confidence during his debut against AC Milan in Singapore.
Some enthusiastic Arsenal supporters have already started comparing the young player to Lionel Messi. However, Odegaard and his experienced teammates aim to ensure Dowman remains grounded as he begins his journey in the senior team.
‘We shouldn’t place too much pressure or set high expectations for him. Instead, we need to allow him the time to develop at his own pace to learn and grow.
‘It’s evident that he has talent. Our role is to support him, ensuring he progresses in his own way and timeframe. I’m confident he will become an outstanding player for us.’
Odegaard, who was also a youthful sensation when he joined Real Madrid at 16, feels his background can aid both Dowman and fellow young player Marli Salmon as they transition to senior-level football.
‘Life can change really quickly when you get into the first team, so I think I can use that experience to give them some advice here and there,’ he said.
On his most important piece of advice, he added: ‘Telling them to stay focused, work hard and to keep your focus where it has to be.
‘When you come through at a young age, there’s going to be a lot of expectations and a lot of hype, but you need to stay focused and keep enjoying your football.’
Dowman’s emergence comes after breakthrough campaigns for Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly last season. Both Hale End graduates featured prominently as term, and Arsenal believe Dowman can follow the same path.
Arteta has also spoken highly of the youngster, calling his performances ‘special’. The Spaniard was taken aback by how quickly the midfielder has adapted.
‘In my day, you would never see a star at 15 ready to play in the Premier League,’ he said after the Gunners’ win over Milan last month. ‘I think they are able to play at that level at 15 because of the environment and culture within the team.
‘It gives you the best chance, but then you have to have the qualities this kid has to deliver against opposition like this.’
Declan Rice has gone further still, describing Dowman as the best 15-year-old in the country after seeing his impact in training and matches on tour.
For Arsenal, the dilemma is how to handle Dowman’s development. On one hand, Arteta is eager to integrate him gradually, but on the other, his quality is already such that he could play a role this season.
Dowman will sit his GCSEs next spring, potentially at the same time Arsenal are chasing the Premier League title.
Arteta’s side have finished runners-up three years in a row, and while they are confident Dowman will be one of the next Hale End graduates to make an impact, the captain has also pledged to supporters that the squad will do everything to take the final step.
‘We need to take our lessons. We need to get better, we’re going to improve day by day, fight and give everything,’ said Odegaard.
‘We need the supporters, the love and the support throughout the season and I’m sure it’s going to be a special one.’
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