Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera has claimed the club already possess their own version of Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal in 15-year-old prodigy Max Dowman.
The Colombian joined Arsenal from Valencia this summer and says he was stunned after learning Dowman’s age, praising his maturity and technical ability.
“I don’t mean to compare, but his style and way of playing is like Lamine Yamal. His movements are Lamine-esque,” Mosquera told The Athletic. “When they told me he was 15, I couldn’t believe it. He really is an incredible player, and I think he’s going to be world-class.”
Dowman, who made his Premier League debut for Arsenal at just 15, has already made history as the youngest scorer in Premier League 2 and recently became England Under-19s’ youngest ever goalscorer in a 7-0 win over Wales.
Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has also heaped praise on Dowman, comparing his dribbling ability to Lionel Messi. “He’s like Messi… he glides past people with ease,” Walcott told BBC Sport.
Barcelona’s Yamal, meanwhile, has faced similar comparisons to Messi but insists he wants to carve his own path. “I admire him as the best player in history, but I don’t compare myself to him,” the Spain international said earlier this year.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has urged caution with Dowman’s development, stressing the importance of balancing opportunity and protection. “We need to make sure we’re giving him the best chance to exploit his talent,” Arteta said.
Dowman has made three substitute appearances this season and will be hoping for more chances when Arsenal return to Premier League action against Fulham after the international break.
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