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Gilberto Silva says he was seriously impressed after seeing one young Arsenal ace play, ‘wow’

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Gilberto Silva played with many incredible players during his time at Arsenal.

The Brazilian was a part of the Invincibles and won the World Cup with Brazil as well, alongside superstars like Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Ronaldo Nazario.

It’s clear that Gilberto knows a good player when he sees one, and he has been amazed by one youngster at Arsenal – Max Dowman.

However, the Gunners legend has sent a warning to Mikel Arteta.

Mikel Arteta manager / head coach of Arsenal applauds during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Emirates Stadium.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images

Gilberto Silva wowed by Arsenal teenager Max Dowman

Arsenal fans were aware of Dowman long before he got an opportunity in the first team.

The teenager impressed everyone with his performances for the academy, and every supporter was desperate to see him play at senior level.

Dowman got that chance during Arsenal’s pre-season tour, and all those who watched him play, including Gilberto Silva, had just one thing to say: “Wow!”

The Arsenal legend has hailed the 15-year-old and also offered him some advice.

He told GiveMeSport: “Max Dowman, wow. I saw him in pre-season.

“You know what I really like, with these young players, that kind of personality. It doesn’t matter how young they are, they play with personality.

“Don’t be scared or afraid of trying things, dribbling, giving a pass, trying something different with their ability. This is so important to build their confidence, but also it’s important to give them time.”

Gilberto warns Mikel Arteta and Arsenal fans not to put pressure on Max Dowman

It’s very rare to see a 15-year-old be a part of the first-team squad, especially at a club as big as Arsenal.

But Arteta promoted the youngster after his impressive showing in pre-season, and he has given him a few opportunities as well.

Gilberto is delighted with that but has urged Arteta, the senior players and the fans not to put much pressure on him.

He said: “Don’t put so much pressure on them. Help them with the pressure, because if you play football, it doesn’t matter where you are, you are under pressure.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re young or a senior player, you are under pressure always to perform when you put the shirt on.

“But the job of the manager, the club, the senior players, is to give those younger talents the support they need to perform and don’t get distracted from what is around them.”