Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta lauded 15-year-old Max Dowman’s physical presence after his record-breaking Champions League debut against Slavia Prague, signaling a bright future for the young talent.
Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman has entered the history books, becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the UEFA Champions League, according to reports.
The 15-year-old attacking midfielder, who is part of the club’s academy, made his record-breaking debut on November 4, 2025, against Slavia Prague, replacing Leandro Trossard in the 73rd minute of the 3-0 victory.
His appearance at 15 years and 308 days old officially surpassed the previous competition record held by Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko.
Dowman’s immediate inclusion in the senior squad has been heavily influenced by the conviction of manager Mikel Arteta, who praised the teenager’s natural fearlessness and quality.
Speaking about his decision to play Dowman despite his age, Arteta offered a strong reflection on the player’s meritocratic inclusion in the team.
Extract: “Mikel Arteta has hailed the ‘unusual’ traits of Hale End wonderkid Max Dowman.” (Based on the original prompt and search context).
Arteta was quoted as saying: “If we look at his passport everyday, we never play him. It’s as simple as that. If you look what he does in training you have to play him and if not – I am blind,” underscoring the wonderkid’s immediate impact on the senior team environment.
The manager has consistently highlighted Dowman’s innate ability to handle pressure, stating, “He just does what he does best, which is to play football.
To play football with a lot of courage and determination and today again, he has shown some incredible skill…” Dowman’s rapid promotion follows a careful development path by the club, confirming his status as one of Europe’s most exciting prospects.