By Our Correspondent
National News – Former England captain Wayne Rooney has praised teenage sensation Max Dowman, saying the young winger could become a champion in the Premier League while still a student.
The 16-year-old rising star recently made history with Arsenal F.C. after delivering an impressive performance that stunned football fans and analysts alike.
Dowman etched his name into the league’s record books when he scored in Arsenal’s 2–0 victory over Everton F.C. at the Emirates Stadium.
The goal made him the youngest scorer in Premier League history and helped Arsenal extend their lead at the top of the table.
His remarkable composure and confidence on the pitch have quickly made him one of the most talked-about young players in English football.
Rooney, who previously held the record after scoring for Everton at the age of 16 in 2002, expressed admiration for the youngster’s self-belief and presence during a recent broadcast.
According to the former striker, Dowman’s talent and mentality could see him lift the league trophy even before finishing school.
“He has the belief and the aura of a player who knows he belongs at the highest level,” Rooney said while discussing the teenager’s rapid rise.
The Manchester United legend noted that opportunities like this rarely come so early, but Dowman appears to be handling the pressure well.
However, Rooney also acknowledged that the Arsenal prospect may temporarily reduce his appearances as he prepares for his General Certificate of Secondary Education examinations.
Education remains a priority for the young footballer and his family, which could limit his time on the pitch in the coming weeks.
Despite this, Rooney believes the teenager’s long-term future remains extremely bright.
Training regularly with Arsenal’s senior squad, he said, will only help accelerate Dowman’s development and expose him to elite-level football at an early stage.
Reflecting on his own early breakthrough, Rooney recalled earning just £75 per week when he scored his famous debut goal for Everton against Arsenal.
Even after that historic moment, he said he returned home and played football on the streets with his friends.
Dowman’s story is now inspiring a new generation of young footballers, showing that talent, confidence and the right opportunity can launch a career even before adulthood.
