Arsenal Teenage Prodigy Max Dowman Makes First Team Bench at Just 15

Max Dowman, Arsenal’s rising star at only 15 years old, was named on the bench for the Gunners’ Premier League match against Leeds United today. This is another significant achievement for the talented youngster who is already making waves in English football.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Dowman was included in Arsenal‘s senior squad for the home fixture against Leeds United in the Premier League. This comes after a breakout year for Dowman, who dominated the U18 Premier League with 15 goals and 5 assists in 15 matches last season. He also impressed in England’s U17 team at the European Championship, starting all three games and scoring in a win against the Czech Republic. In pre-season, Dowman played against top clubs like AC Milan, Newcastle, and Tottenham, showing remarkable composure and skill for his age. He is considered Arsenal’s most exciting academy product since Bukayo Saka, even before being eligible for a professional contract.

ARSENAL’S SEASON SO FAR

The Gunners have started the 2025-26 Premier League season aiming to build on last year’s second-place finish. Coming into the Leeds United clash, Arsenal is currently third in the Premier League table, level on points with the leaders after the initial matches. They are now top of the league, with 2 wins in 2 matches. Arsenal’s attack, led by Viktor Gyokeres and Bukayo Saka, has already scored five goals this term. Leeds United, returning to the top flight after promotion, have 1 win and 1 loss from their 2 opening matches. Arsenal face a key test, as a win could move them closer to the top and keep pressure on their rivals.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MAX DOWMAN?

Dowman remains too young to sign a professional deal, but his rapid rise has put Arsenal under pressure to secure his future amid interest from other big clubs. The Gunners will have to manage his development carefully, balancing first-team opportunities with his ongoing education and physical growth. If Dowman’s form continues and he makes his debut this season, he could break records as one of the youngest Premier League players ever. Arsenal’s next match after Leeds is away at Anfield, their first test against a true title contender. All eyes will be on whether Dowman gets his first minutes for the senior team in the coming weeks.