Who Is Max Dowman? Meet the 15-Year-Old Wonderkid Who Debuted for Arsenal in Pre-Season 2025

Max Dowman, a rising star from Arsenal’s Hale End academy, was hailed as “the best 15-year-old in the country” by Declan Rice back in March last year.

In recent years, Arsenal's youth system has produced standout talents like Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly—players who’ve already made their mark on the first team. But the excitement surrounding Dowman could surpass all of them. Manager Mikel Arteta seems to believe it too.

In March, he stated: “Let’s see how this evolves but we have certainly got a big, big talent there.” 

When Arsenal U18s faced Manchester United U18s in the FA Youth Cup semi-final last February, 15-year-old Max Dowman stole the show. Despite being the youngest player on the pitch, he looked the most dangerous—gliding past defenders several years older, winning a penalty, and confidently converting it.

Even though England fell short in the group stage of this summer’s U17 Euros, Dowman once again stood out. He scored a brilliant solo goal against Czechia and was arguably the brightest spark in the squad.

Now, he’s in Singapore with Arsenal’s first team on their pre-season tour, having made an unofficial debut against AC Milan. He doesn’t even turn 16 until New Year’s Eve, but with the way things are going, Max Dowman could be set for a breakout season with the Gunners.

How Skilled Is Max Dowman?

Max Dowman's stats for Arsenal's U18s are nothing short of incredible. In just 25 games, he's racked up 20 goals and 10 assists — remarkable numbers, especially when you consider two things: A) he’s not even a striker, and B) he’s still only 15 years old, and won’t turn 16 until late December.

He’s also made an impression on the international stage, scoring four goals in 14 appearances for England’s U17s. Now, as the youngest player on Arsenal’s preseason tour, Dowman is expected to get chances with the first team this season.

But what kind of role could he play under Mikel Arteta? That’s the exciting question — and one that could shape Arsenal’s future.

Dowman’s Style of Play

Max Dowman has mostly played as a right-winger or attacking midfielder at youth level. This summer, he featured for the England U17s on the right flank, where he was a constant threat—cutting inside onto his stronger left foot. That said, he's comfortable using both feet, and many believe his future lies in the No. 10 role.

What really sets Dowman apart is his sharpness, confidence, and athleticism. He has a rare natural ability to control his body, constantly shifting gears to start and stop with ease—making life difficult for defenders.

It's a frightening prospect when you combine his explosive ball-striking and clinical finishing — at times, he looks completely unstoppable.

But as Dowman enters a crucial phase in his development, it’s worth remembering that early success doesn’t always translate at the senior level, especially against the Premier League’s elite defenders. That said, right now, the only things that seem capable of holding him back are injuries or a slip in attitude.

Cover Credits - Metro