Overview

• At 15, Max Dowman became Arsenal’s second-youngest Premier League player and the league’s second-youngest overall.
• He drew a late penalty on his debut, which Viktor Gyokeres converted in a 5-0 win over Leeds United.
• Arsenal are applying safeguarding protocols, including separate changing facilities, built-in study time and a dedicated security presence during travel.
• Declan Rice has been designated as a mentor to support Dowman’s transition into the first-team environment.
• Pundits have praised his close control—Theo Walcott compared his ball-carrying to Lionel Messi—while analysts note he remains on a scholarship, cannot turn pro until 17 and has a limited window to challenge youngest-scorer records.