Arteta backs Max Dowman after Messi praise as Gunners chase City

Under the floodlights at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta gathered his squad after a night in Lille, ready to refocus on the Premier League. The Arsenal manager addressed the buzz surrounding teenager Max Dowman, whose recent mention by Lionel Messi sparked both pride and expectation.

Messi’s endorsement fuels confidence

Artura told his players that Messi, whom he called “the best ever player”, had placed Dowman among his top ten rising Adidas athletes. “His eyes are, I think, better than anybody else’s. Hopefully he’s right,” Arteta said, echoing the Argentine’s praise.

He added that Dowman possesses “something special” and highlighted the youngster’s “remarkable things” in the few appearances he has made. “He’s a joy to watch. The way he moves, the way he touches the ball, the way he carries himself, it’s just different. That’s what makes him unique,” Artura explained.

Arsenal’s recent form and upcoming fixtures

The Gunners returned to winning ways in the top‑flight by beating Leeds, rebounding from a surprise 3‑0 loss to Brighton before the international break. Now, Artura will be hoping his players can string a run together as they chase Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal’s next league test is Nottingham Forest on Sunday, followed by visits from Everton and Hull City, before a trip to Liverpool at Anfield. Those four fixtures should give the Gunners a chance to build real momentum before the next international break.

Arsenal’s late surge turns a tight night into a Champions League triumph

Gabriel’s penalty redemption

Defender Gabriel also featured in the article, vowing to right his penalty miss in the Champions League final against Paris‑Saint‑Germain. He recalled the decisive strike from 12 yards that sailed over the bar, handing the trophy to the French side.

“In the final anything can happen, and we did really well. Of course, if I have another penalty, I will be there to take it,” Gabriel said, adding that his Brazil colleague Marquinhos had comforted him after the miss.

Gabriel praised Marquinhos for his experience, noting the Brazilian had missed a penalty in a World Cup but still offered support. “He said some words to me, and helped me a lot… I learned a lot from him, too,” Gabriel reflected.

Jurriën Timber puts Arsenal in the race with first goal against Lille

compiled the latest headlines from the red side of north London, with Abbie Meehan credited as senior sports writer. The article, posted at 04:00 on 14 October 2026, includes three images and a “View” link to related content.