Ex-Premier League star hails Arsenal’s next Messi ahead of Man United clash

All eyes are on Arsenal’s rising teenage star as they prepare to face Manchester United in their opening match of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Former England striker Peter Crouch believes this could be the season where a new prodigy makes headlines.

Crouch has made his early predictions for the 2025/26 season, tipping Liverpool to defend their crown. “I think they’ve signed well. They won it at a canter last year,” he said, while also backing a potential signing of Alexander Isak to make them untouchable.

He placed Arsenal as runners-up, describing them as strong contenders but slightly short of Liverpool’s dominance: “Look, I think they’ve got the ability to win it without doubt, but I think they’ll just fall short a little bit.”

For the rest of the table, Crouch went with Chelsea in third, Manchester City in fourth, Manchester United in fifth, and Aston Villa sixth, while naming Burnley, Leeds, and Wolves for relegation.

Beyond the title race, Crouch’s most eye-catching claim came when he hailed Arsenal’s 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman.

The teenager impressed during pre-season and could be fast-tracked into senior football. “Max Dowman is someone that has been on everyone’s lips. He is someone that is going to excel at some point. This pre-season he already looks ready. It’s more about when,” said Crouch.

He even compared the youngster’s style to one of the game’s greatest: “I keep comparing him to Messi and I know it’s a ridiculous statement. But when I say it I just mean you can see him coming inside and playing at ease. Very little players at his age can do that.”

Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see if Dowman features against Manchester United, as the Gunners star eyes a record-breaking season.