Wayne Rooney
Image credit: Getty Images
Former England captain Wayne Rooney has hailed Arsenal teenager Max Dowman’s Premier League debut as “surreal,” after the 15-year-old made history in the Gunners’ emphatic 5-0 victory over Leeds United.
Dowman, aged just 15 years and 234 days, became the second-youngest player ever to represent Arsenal when he came off the bench for a lively 26-minute cameo. The attacking midfielder impressed with his composure, even winning a late penalty, as he captivated fans and drew praise from across the football world.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show podcast, the Manchester United and Everton legend reflected on the achievement, drawing comparisons to his own top-flight debut at 16 for Everton in 2002.
READ MORE: Arsenal handed huge boost as forward nears return from serious injury
“To play at that age in the Premier League is crazy,” Rooney said. “I know I played when I was young, but he’s like 150 days younger than I was, or more. It’s surreal. One minute you’re in the youth team and the next you’re in the first-team dressing room with some of your heroes.”
Rooney revealed that Dowman’s name is already on the lips of many within the game. “Everyone you speak to in football, the same name keeps coming back: Max Dowman. His future is so bright, he is going to have a massive career.”
Max Dowman v Leeds United
15-year-old Max Dowman made his Premier League debut against Leeds United (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also praised the youngster’s fearlessness, saying: “There is a kid here that has zero hesitation and is so convinced that, at 15, he can go and deliver, which I have never witnessed in my life.”
Rooney, who was in the stands with his son Kai, an aspiring footballer who has faced Dowman in youth competitions, urged the youngster to stay grounded.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
“It can be overwhelming. For Max and his family, it’s a dream and a fairytale and it probably hasn’t hit home yet,” Rooney said.
He also admitted he was relieved Dowman did not take the penalty he won, noting the pressure such a moment could bring. “If he misses, you get people online having a go at him. It was such an impressive debut.”
Dowman follows in the footsteps of Ethan Nwaneri, who set the Premier League record as its youngest-ever player at 15 years and 181 days in 2022. With Arsenal continuing to showcase extraordinary youth talent, Rooney’s endorsement only adds weight to the excitement around Dowman’s rise.
“Enjoy it,” Rooney advised. “Make the most of it because it goes very quickly.”
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal make approach to sign Arnau Martinez ahead of transfer deadline