Arsenal told they now have a ‘ridiculous’ wonderkid emerging at Hale End – it’s not Ethan Nwaneri

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A number of hugely talented players have emerged from Arsenal’s Hale End academy system over the years.

The Gunners’ youth setup is now overseen by former centre-back Per Mertesacker. The German is responsible for guiding the next batch of youth prospects, who are all battling for the chance to step up into Mikel Arteta’s first team squad.

Ethan Nwaneri has established himself in the first team at the Emirates Stadium this season, as has Myles Lewis-Skelly. The 17-year-old duo will be hoping to emulate Bukayo Saka, who has made himself a talismanic figure in North London since graduating from the academy. 

Arsenal fans are excited about Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly, and for good reason. However, there is another youthful talent on the club’s books that supporters ought to be keen to see in action. 

• READ MORE: Every Arsenal academy player to make their senior debuts under Mikel Arteta

Adrian Clarke hails Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman

Despite being just 14-years-old, Max Dowman is already a regular at under-19s level for the Gunners.

The teenage midfielder is a hugely talented prospect, and Arteta will already be well aware of his potential.

Former Arsenal ace, Adrian Clarke, has now given his verdict on the youngster.

Speaking on the Handbrake Off podcast, he said: “Max Dowman, that 14-year-old wonderkid that’s ripping it up in the under-19s.

“He looks, quite frankly, ridiculous for a 14-year-old, talent wise. Left-footed attacking midfielder, ghosts past players, makes good decisions. I know the level is completely different, but having been there a long, long time ago as a youngster, to step up way above your age group and to be so standout is a bit special.”

How Mikel Arteta must handle Hale End academy gem Max Dowman

Arsenal have high hopes for Dowman. However, Arteta will be well aware that the player must be handled with care at this crucial stage in his development. 

Whilst it is important for him to be challenged and tested, it must also be remembered that Dowman is still a child. The club therefore have a responsibility to shield him from the limelight to an extent, and not to burden him with too much pressure or expectation too soon. 

Dowman has to be allowed to develop in his own time. However, it is equally true that exceptional talent must be rewarded. The teenager will be afforded opportunities to train with first team squad, and a plan to hand him his senior debut at some point in the not-too-distant future may also be in place.