Arteta responds to Messi’s prediction about Arsenal star

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has responded to Lionel Messi naming teenage prospect Max Dowman as a future star. Messi included the 15-year-old among several young talents he expects to have outstanding careers. Arteta acknowledged Messi's praise by stating that the Argentine is the best player ever, adding that he hopes Messi's assessment of Dowman's high potential proves to be correct.

Dowman broke into Arsenal's first team at age 15 after contributing to the club's title success last season. While Scottish clubs Celtic and Rangers are reportedly considering a January loan move due to his limited playing time, Arsenal prefer to keep Dowman with the senior squad to manage his development carefully.