Arsenal - Mikel Arteta
Image Credit: Getty Images
Arsenal pre-season has been a mixed bag of promise and challenges as they gear up for the 2025-26 Premier League campaign.
The Gunners secured victories against AC Milan (1-0) and Newcastle United (3-2) during their Asia tour but fell to Tottenham Hotspur (0-1) and, most recently, Villarreal (2-3) at the Emirates Stadium on August 6, 2025.
Despite the loss to Villarreal, where new signing Viktor Gyokeres struggled to make an impact, the match showcased Arsenal’s depth and the emergence of young talent, setting an optimistic tone for the season ahead.
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Amidst the spotlight on new signings like Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi, 15-year-old Max Dowman was the one who stole the show.
Max Dowman - Arsenal
Max Dowman shone for Arsenal again this evening against Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium. [Image Credit: Getty Images]
The Hale End academy prodigy, often compared to Bukayo Saka for his flair, has dazzled in pre-season cameos. Against Newcastle, Dowman’s fearless dribbling drew a penalty, converted by Martin Odegaard, securing a 3-2 win.
His quick feet and composure shone again versus AC Milan, where he nearly scored after a mazy run. In the Villarreal match, Dowman continued to impress, winning another penalty and troubling defenders with his relentless pressure on the right flank.
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Dowman’s ability to compete against senior players, despite his age, stems from his physicality and technical prowess. His 15 goals and five assists in 15 U18 Premier League games last season highlight his readiness to step up.
Arsenal’s cautious approach, led by Mikel Arteta, ensures Dowman is eased into senior football to protect his development, but his pre-season performances suggest a competitive debut is imminent.
After the Villarreal match, Dowman is set to take a well-deserved holiday, having had no break due to his pre-season commitments.
As Arsenal prepare for their final friendly against Athletic Club, fans are buzzing about Dowman’s potential to become the club’s next academy star.
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