“They play with a smile, like they’re in school:” Raya Praises Dowman & Yamal With Stunning Comparison.

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has weighed in on one of football’s most exciting debates, the rapid rise of youngsters Dowman and Lamine Yamal, and his comments have sent waves through the football world.

Speaking to ESPN, Raya made it clear that while the two prodigies are often compared, their brilliance lies in very different qualities.

“I would not ever compare two players, even less two players with that quality. They are two very different players, but where they are similar is that when they go out onto the pitch, they enjoy it.”

The Spaniard went on to highlight the rare fearlessness both players show whenever they step onto the field.

“They are always playing with a smile that it seems that they are playing in school. It is clear that they compete to help the team, but that naturalness in the way they play football & at the level they’re playing, is incredible.” Raya told ESPN.

For Raya, their shared joy and instinctive style are what truly set them apart, and what make them so dangerous.

And when it comes to Yamal specifically, the numbers speak louder than any comparison. Since making his debut in 2023, the Barcelona sensation has already produced 18 goal involvements (GA) for Spain, surpassing global superstar Vinícius Júnior, who has 17 GA for Brazil since 2019.

The staggering part?
Yamal just turned 18, while Vini is already 25.

Such data underscores the magnitude of Raya’s praise. Being mentioned alongside Lamine Yamal, and even in the same breath as Vini Jr, is not just a compliment; it’s a testament to Dowman’s rising trajectory and Yamal’s extraordinary, generational talent.

As these young stars continue to light up the footballing world, Raya’s words capture exactly why fans can’t stop talking about them: not just because of their stats, but because of the fearless, joyful way they play the game.