Image credit: Getty Images
Mikel Arteta is set to name 15-year-old academy prodigy Max Dowman on the bench for Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium, according to multiple reliable reports, including HandofArsenal.
The Hale End product has been widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in English football, earning comparisons to some of the game’s elite talents. Born on December 31, 2009, Dowman has already broken several records in his young career. At just 13, he made his debut for Arsenal’s Under-18s, and at 14, he became the youngest-ever goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League with a strike against Atalanta.
Dowman further enhanced his reputation during Arsenal’s pre-season tour of Asia in 2025, impressing against AC Milan and Newcastle United. His performances drew glowing praise from both manager Mikel Arteta and senior players. Midfielder Declan Rice previously described him as “the best 15-year-old in the country,” while Arteta remarked: “Some of the things he does in training are unbelievable.”
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Primarily an attacking midfielder, Dowman is comfortable operating as a No. 10 or on the right wing, with his dribbling, close control, and composure under pressure earning him frequent comparisons to Lionel Messi. He demonstrated his ability to influence games against top opposition during the summer, when he came off the bench against Newcastle to win a penalty converted by Martin Odegaard.
Max Dowman v Villareal
Max Dowman (Image credit: Getty Images)
If named in today’s squad, Dowman will become one of the youngest players ever included in a Premier League matchday lineup for Arsenal. However, he will not surpass teammate Ethan Nwaneri’s record as the youngest-ever Premier League debutant (15 years and 181 days). Dowman, now 15 years and 236 days, would fall just short of that milestone.
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Dowman’s rise is another testament to the strength of Arsenal’s academy, which has developed stars such as Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Nwaneri. His inclusion alongside fellow youngster Tommy Setford in the senior setup highlights Arteta’s continued commitment to integrating youth while competing at the highest level.
While it remains uncertain whether Dowman will feature against Leeds, his expected presence on the bench underlines Arsenal’s belief in his potential to make the step up. For Hale End, and for Arsenal’s long-term vision, the teenager’s rapid ascent represents another milestone in the club’s proud tradition of nurturing homegrown talent.
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