Wayne Rooney has lauded teenage winger Max Dowman after the 16-year-old became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history.
Dowman scored during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, helping the Gunners extend their lead at the top of the table to nine points. His milestone drew immediate comparisons with Rooney’s own early breakthrough—he had previously held the record after scoring for Everton against Arsenal in 2002 at the age of 16.
Balancing football and education
Rooney highlighted the challenge Dowman now faces in juggling football with his school commitments.
“He has his GCSEs, and his education, I’m sure for him and his family, is important as well,” Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show. “What an opportunity for him to be around the squad. He could be a Premier League winner while still finishing school.”
He added that Dowman’s appearances could be limited in the coming weeks as exams take priority:
“He’s got an aura and a belief about him, and it was the same against Everton. If it’s education first, I don’t think we’ll see much of him over the next few weeks.”
Reflecting on his own early rise
Rooney also drew parallels with his own experience as a young talent. Before turning professional, he earned £75 a week and even borrowed money from his parents, returning to play football on the streets after scoring his first Premier League goal.
He noted that young players today face new pressures due to social media:
“Now we’re in social media. People will be messaging, Instagram or Twitter, whatever he’s got. And you’ll be seeing it everywhere.”
Confidence and composure on the pitch
Rooney praised Dowman’s composure and attacking mindset:
“From the games I’ve watched, he doesn’t let the pressure affect him. He gets the ball, holds on to it, commits defenders, and goes to take them on.”
He added that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the senior players will play a key role in keeping the youngster grounded:
“For a 16-year-old with that ability, you just hope he can go and fulfil that potential. Let him enjoy it and express himself.”
Dowman’s record-breaking goal marks the start of what Rooney believes could be a stellar career, provided the teenager balances his professional ambitions with his education.
