Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has praised the physicality of youngster Max Dowman after making his debut in the Champions League.
The 15-year-old was given 18 minutes to make an impression for the Gunners, against Slavia Prague, with the game already won at 3-0.
In the process, Max Dowman set the record as the youngest-ever Champions League player, as well as becoming the first 15-year-old to feature in the competition.
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Arsenal have high hopes for the star, and Mikel Arteta has explained exactly why.
SK Slavia Praha v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Mikel Arteta praises Max Dowman after Champions League debut
Dowman’s quick rise to stardom at Arsenal has put a spotlight on the star, as many question just how quickly he can adjust to senior football.
There are physical challenges that often stop talented technical players from being as good at the senior level as they can be at the youth level.
However, Dowman has risen to the challenge, as Mikel Arteta explained to UEFA: “It doesn’t get any harder than this competition, and Max [Dowman] at 15 straight away looked to take people on and win free-kicks.
“That shows the personality these kids have. The way he plays, he attracts a lot of contact. We have a massive player there.”
The future certainly is bright for Dowman, as Arteta continues to throw him new challenges each week across all competitions.
The next step is to continue getting more opportunities.
SK Slavia Praha v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Max Dowman will be aiming for youngest-ever starter in Champions League
The next record that Dowman will be looking to break before the end of the season is the youngest-ever starter in the Champions League.
The Arsenal youngster has plenty of time to do so, though there are some tough games for him to be dropped into.
Mikel Arteta has the challenge of Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Club Brugge coming up, all of which appear to be tough fixtures to throw a 15-year-old into the mix.
There could be an opportunity in late January, however, when Arsenal take on Kairat Almaty at the Emirates Stadium in the final match of the league phase.
If the Gunners are already qualified in the top eight, it could be the perfect chance for Dowman to feature.