Max Dowman England
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s teenage sensation Max Dowman has received his first call-up to the England Under-19 squad, becoming the latest Hale End graduate to make waves on the international stage.
The 15-year-old attacking midfielder, who will not turn 16 until New Year’s Eve, has been promoted two age groups following his impressive Premier League debut against Leeds United last weekend.
Dowman came off the bench in Arsenal’s 5-0 victory on August 23, becoming the second-youngest player in Premier League history at 15 years and 235 days behind only teammate Ethan Nwaneri. His lively cameo, capped by winning a stoppage-time penalty, showcased the flair, composure, and fearlessness that have already made him one of England’s most talked-about prospects.
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Dowman, who has already represented England 16 times at U17 level, scoring five goals, now steps into the U19s as part of a squad set to face Ukraine, Spain, and the Netherlands in September.
Max Dowman
Max Dowman (Image credit: Getty Images)
He could make his debut against Ukraine on Wednesday, September 3, before further fixtures against Spain (September 6) and the Netherlands (September 9). Arsenal goalkeeper Jack Porter also features in the squad, underlining the club’s strong influence in England’s youth setup.
The Chelmsford-born talent’s rise has been meteoric. A Hale End product since the age of five, Dowman made his Arsenal U18 debut at just 13 and became the youngest goalscorer in UEFA Youth League history last September, netting against Atalanta aged 14 years and eight months.
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Last season, he recorded 19 goals and five assists in 23 U18 matches, including 14 goals in his final seven appearances, cementing his reputation as a generational talent.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been quick to integrate Dowman into senior football, praising his “zero hesitation” and “unbelievable” training performances. Former academy coach Temisan Williams also highlighted Dowman’s ball-carrying ability as his “super strength” since childhood.
With such rapid progression, Arsenal are taking precautions to safeguard the youngster. According to BBC Sport, measures include separate changing facilities and a dedicated security presence. Currently in Year 11 and preparing for his GCSEs, Dowman continues to be closely guided by academy manager Per Mertesacker to balance his education and footballing commitments.
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