Max Dowman England
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal youngster Max Dowman has written his name into the record books after becoming the youngest player to feature for England’s U19 side during their 2-0 win over Ukraine in Murcia on Wednesday.
The 15-year-old midfielder, who was recently named in Arsenal’s Champions League squad, came off the bench in the 70th minute at the Pinatar Arena, replacing Jeremy Monga. At just 15 years, eight months and three days old, Dowman set a new milestone as the youngest player to represent England at U19 level, according to Transfermarkt.
Dowman has previously represented England at U16 and U17 levels but skipped two age groups to make his debut for Will Antwi’s side. He will now be hoping for more minutes as the Young Lions continue their three-match tour in Spain, with upcoming fixtures against Spain and another opponent later this month as part of preparations for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
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Goals from Divine Mukasa and Shumaira Mheuka sealed England’s victory over Ukraine, with Dowman’s historic appearance adding further cause for celebration.
Max Dowman
Max Dowman (Image credit: Getty Images)
The teenager’s rapid rise has also drawn attention at club level. Arsenal included him in their 23-man List A squad for this season’s Champions League, making him eligible to break another major record.
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Should Dowman feature before his 16th birthday on December 31, he would become the first 15-year-old to play in the competition, surpassing Youssoufa Moukoko, who debuted at 16 years and 18 days for Borussia Dortmund.
Dowman has already enjoyed a breakthrough at senior level with Arsenal, making his Premier League debut against Leeds United earlier this season. Introduced in the 64th minute, he made an immediate impact by winning a penalty.
Due to his age, the teenager remains under strict safeguarding measures. He must be accompanied by a chaperone while with the first team and is not permitted to change in the main dressing room. Despite these restrictions, his rapid progression suggests more records could soon follow.
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