🔥 Arsenal’s 15-Year-Old Wonderkid Stuns AC Milan – Declan Rice Says “Best in the Country”!
Arsenal fans may have just witnessed the future of the club and his name is Max Dowman Arsenal. At only 15 years old, this rising star stunned fans and coaches alike after making his senior debut in a pre-season friendly against AC Milan in Singapore. But who exactly is this teenage sensation making waves at Hale End?
Who Is Max Dowman?
Born in 2009, Max Dowman isn’t just another name on Arsenal’s team sheet he’s being hailed as one of the most promising young midfielders in England today. Declan Rice, England international and Arsenal star, didn’t hold back when asked about Dowman:
“The best 15-year-old in the country,” he said. And that’s not just hype.
Dowman’s technical brilliance, composure on the ball, and ability to glide past defenders make him a standout talent. His stop-start dribbling, flawless ball control, and sharp decision-making have left coaches at London Colney buzzing with excitement.
Max Dowman: Quick Profile Table
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Max Dowman |
Date of Birth | 2009 |
Position | Midfielder / Wide Attacker |
Club | Arsenal FC |
Senior Debut | July 2025 (vs AC Milan, Pre-season) |
Youth Stats (U18s) | 20 Goals, 10 Assists in 25 Matches |
International Experience | England U17 (14 caps, 4 goals) |
Known For | Dribbling, Ball Control, Intelligence |
Declan Rice’s Comment | “Best 15-year-old in the country” |
Notable Record | Youngest player in Premier League 2 (age 14) |
A Record-Breaking Path
Even before his senior debut, Dowman had already turned heads. Last season, he became the youngest player ever to feature in Premier League 2, debuting at just 14 years old. And it’s not just appearances—his stats speak for themselves:
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20 goals and 10 assists in just 25 games for Arsenal’s U18s
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Already capped 14 times for England U17s
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Four goals in international competition
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Can play as both an advanced midfielder and wide attacker
All of this, and he won’t even turn 16 until December.

What Makes Him Special?
Max Dowman’s game is built on intelligence, balance, and control. He plays like someone years beyond his age, showing maturity, vision, and an elite first touch. Former Arsenal winger Perry Groves praised Dowman after watching him live:
“I had never seen a 15-year-old that good ever. He was on three different levels to everyone else.”
Dowman’s ability to change speed, manipulate space, and deliver a final product gives him a clear edge. His natural flair isn’t taught it’s innate.
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Mikel Arteta Is Impressed
After the AC Milan match, manager Mikel Arteta praised the club’s youth stars, highlighting Dowman among them:
“They’re playing at that level at just 15 because of the culture around them. The environment helps—but then they also need the talent. And Max has it.”
Arteta emphasized how important the academy’s work is, and how Dowman, along with others like Marli Salmon and Josh Nichols, grabbed their opportunity during the club’s Singapore tour.
🏆 What’s Next for Dowman?
While it’s still early, there’s no doubt that Dowman will be gradually integrated into the first team. He’s the youngest player in Arsenal’s pre-season squad, and expectations are rising fast. Whether he features in more senior games this season or continues developing in youth competitions, the club clearly sees him as a future star.
As Arteta put it:
“Now it’s about adapting to the physical and tactical demands of senior football. But the potential? It’s incredible.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Max Dowman?
Max Dowman is a 15-year-old Arsenal wonderkid making waves after debuting against AC Milan in 2025.
2. How old was Max Dowman when he debuted for Arsenal’s first team?
He made his senior debut at just 15 during a pre-season match in Singapore.
3. What makes Max Dowman special?
He’s known for elite dribbling, tight control, and maturity far beyond his age.
4. What did Declan Rice say about Max Dowman?
Declan Rice called him “the best 15-year-old in the country.”
5. Will Max Dowman play for Arsenal this season?
While it’s not confirmed, he’s part of the senior squad and could get more opportunities soon.
Why Max Dowman Matters to Arsenal’s Future
Arsenal’s academy has produced top talents like Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Reiss Nelson. Max Dowman could be next in line to carry that legacy. If his development stays on track, fans might see him become a regular name at the Emirates sooner than anyone expected.