History was made during Arsenal's 3-0 win over Slavia Prague in the Champions League as 15-year-old Max Dowman became the youngest player in the competition's history.
The Gunners cruised to victory in their fourth League Phase clash in Czech Republic thanks to a Bukayo Saka penalty and a brace from stand-in striker Mikel Merino, as they earned an eighth consecutive clean sheet in all competitions and maintained their 100% record in the competition.
Mikel Arteta was confident enough in his side that he called upon teenager Dowman to come onto the pitch in the 72nd minute, replacing Leandro Trossard, making him the youngest player in Champions League history at 15 years and 308 days, breaking Youssouf Moukoko's previous record of 16 years and 18 days.
What Mikel Arteta Said About Max Dowmanmax dowman
After coming on in the 72nd minute, Dowman his quality and confidence as he used his quick feet to earn a free-kick in the 78th minute, while also showing great composure in the dying minutes to keep possession despite pressure from an aggressive Czech side.
According to Sofascore, Dowman completed four of his six pass attempts, one of three dribbles and was fouled twice during his short time on the pitch.
When asked after the game about Dowman's cameo, Gunners boss Arteta heaped praise on the youngster.
"The first ball he gets, he takes people on. He starts to dribble and gets a foul. That is personality, that is courage. You cannot teach that—you either have it or you don’t. It doesn’t matter what his passport says, you throw him in and he is able to adapt."
What Fans Are Saying as Max Dowman breaks Champions League record with Arsenal vs Slavia Prague
max dowman
Fans also reacted to the record-breaking moment on social media, with one describing the achievement as "unbelievable" while congratulating him, while another praised a silky touch he produced in stoppage time.
Gunners fans are rightly excited by the Hale End product, and AqeelAFC commented that the super-talent was 'destined for greatness' after obliterating the record. Anaeke Bridgette stated that she was 'in shock' that a 15 year old was playing football at such a high level, and declared his future to be bright.