Max Dowman makes history as Arsenal’s youngest-ever starter. A match that illustrated the academy’s bright future at Arsenal, 15-year-old Max Dowman somehow made his debut in the history books of the club as he became the youngest ever player to be part of the men’s first team’s starting lineup.
A Record-Breaking Night at the Emirates
The historic situation happened on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. Arsenal won Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0 in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup. Max Dowman makes history as he is 15 years and 302 days old. Moreover, he is the youngest to start in the opening lineup by a teammate Jack Porter. He had only done it last season. When he began against Bolton, Porter was 16 years and 72 days old, that is, Dowman surpassed the old record by 135 days.
A Performance That Belied His Age
On the right wing, Dowman gave an excellent performance which displayed not only his great skill, but great composure. During his 71 minutes in the field before being replaced by Bukayo Saka the teenager was threatening the Brighton defense all the time.
His statistics from the match were impressive:
- He attempted nine dribbles, completing five of themโmore than any other player on the pitch.
- He won a game-high nine duels.
- He won four fouls, also the most of any player.
Sky Sports analysis noted that his nine attempted dribbles were “the highest by any Arsenal player in any game all season”.
Arteta’s Praise for the “Special” Talent
Following the game, a clearly impressed Mikel Arteta gave his opinion about the performance of the prodigy and his personality. He exposed that the reaction of the teenager whenever he informed Dowman that he would commence a tiny smile.
Arteta also pointed out how cautious the club was in handling the rapid growth of Dowman as he knew he had to not only be the motivating force but also provide him with security. It is going on very, very fast and everybody must know that, he said.
A Bright Future Ahead
He was in the first team since he was 14, and was an impressive performer on the club pre-season tour of Asia. In August 2025, he had his debut in the Premier League as a sub in Leeds United. This seems to be the start of a very bright journey to Max Dowman and Arsenal.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
