SEVILLE, Spain - Fifteen-year-old Max Dowman became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday, appearing as a substitute for Arsenal in their match against PSV Eindhoven. The winger,who only turned 15 in January,broke the previous record held by Lamine Yamal of Barcelona,who debuted at 16 years and 83 days.
Dowman’s rapid ascent comes after years of training with Arsenal’s first team, beginning at age 14 and including a warm-weather camp in Dubai this January. He has consistently impressed at the youth level, recently becoming the youngest goalscorer for both England’s Under-17s (in May) and Under-19s teams.Supporters had even called for his inclusion in the senior squad last season when the Gunners faced attacking injury shortages.
Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta have taken a deliberately cautious approach to Dowman’s development, recognizing the unique challenges of integrating such a young player into a professional habitat. The club has implemented measures to support his career progression and well-being, including adjustments to his changing arrangements, a continued emphasis on his education, and ensuring strong support from his teammates.
Arteta revealed after Dowman’s debut in a 5-0 win against Leeds on August 23rd that the club is carefully monitoring his reactions to various scenarios – being on the bench, training with the first team, and even being left out of the squad altogether – to best manage his integration.
