Arsenal have named 15-year-old midfielder Max Dowman in their Premier League squad for the first time for the home match against Leeds United.
The England youth international’s selection marks a significant milestone in his rapid ascent through the club’s academy. Dowman made his debut for Arsenal’s under-18 team in September 2023 at just 13 years old and last September became the youngest-ever goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League.
He gained his first taste of senior football during the club’s pre-season tour, appearing as a substitute against Milan. He particularly caught the eye four days later against Newcastle United, winning a penalty in another impressive cameo. After consistently training with the first team, his inclusion in a competitive squad is the next step in his carefully managed development.
While Dowman traveled with the team for last weekend’s season opener against Manchester United, he did not make the final 20-man list. His presence against Leeds marks his first official inclusion in a senior matchday squad for a competitive fixture.
Under Premier League rules, a player must be 15 by August 31 of a season to be eligible, which is why Dowman could not feature last term. Should he make an appearance, he will not become the competition’s youngest-ever player, as that record is held by his teammate Ethan Nwaneri, who debuted at 15 years and five months old in 2022.
Manager Mikel Arteta has previously spoken about the process for young players, highlighting the need for them to adapt to the high physical demands of top-level football to earn their opportunities. Dowman’s involvement is seen as a sign of the trust the manager has in his ability, following public praise from Arteta last season and his standout performances against senior opposition in pre-season.
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