Former England captain impressed by talent and confidence of 16 year old
Wayne Rooney has praised Max Dowman after the Arsenal youngster became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history. The 16 year old found the net in Arsenal’s 2:0 win over Everton, a result that moved Mikel Arteta’s team nine points clear at the top of the table.
Rooney knows exactly what that kind of moment feels like. He was once the youngest scorer in the competition himself after netting for Everton against Arsenal in 2002. Because of that, he understands both the excitement and the challenge that come with breaking through at such an early age.
Speaking about Dowman, Rooney said the teenager already has a strong presence and real belief in his game. He pointed out that even at this age, the winger looks comfortable demanding the ball, taking on defenders and playing without fear.
Rooney says Dowman must balance football with school
At the same time, Rooney also reminded everyone that Dowman is still a schoolboy and has important exams ahead. He said the Arsenal player still has his GCSEs to complete and suggested that education will remain a major priority for both the teenager and his family over the coming weeks.
Rooney joked that Dowman could even end the season as a Premier League winner while still finishing school. Even so, he believes Arsenal will manage him carefully and that there may be moments when studies come before first team involvement.
According to Rooney, that may mean fans do not see as much of Dowman in the short term as they might want. But he also stressed that the youngster has many years ahead of him and does not need to rush anything.
Confidence, attention and a different era
Rooney also reflected on how different football is today compared with when he made his own breakthrough. He recalled that when he scored as a 16 year old, he was earning very little and even borrowing money from his parents. After the game, he simply went back outside to play with his friends.
Now, he said, everything is amplified by social media. A player like Dowman is likely to be flooded with messages and attention almost instantly after such a moment. Rooney suggested the teenager probably did not sleep much after his goal because of all the reaction surrounding it.
Despite that, Rooney likes the way Dowman handles himself. He said the winger does not appear weighed down by pressure and instead plays with confidence and freedom. He also backed Arteta and the senior Arsenal players to keep the youngster grounded while allowing him to enjoy his rise.
For Rooney, that is the key. Dowman should stay humble, but also embrace the moment and express himself, because players with that much talent deserve the chance to enjoy their breakthrough.
