Overview
- Dowman, aged 15 years and 308 days, came on in the 72nd minute to replace Leandro Trossard in Arsenal’s 3-0 win at Slavia Prague, becoming the competition’s first 15-year-old participant.
- He eclipsed the previous youngest-player mark set by Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko, who debuted at 16 years and 18 days in 2020.
- Mikel Arteta praised Dowman’s mentality and technique, noting his immediate dribble to draw a foul as evidence of “personality” and “courage.”
- The cameo continues a rapid rise this season that includes a Premier League debut in August and a record as Arsenal’s youngest-ever starter in last week’s Carabao Cup win over Brighton.
- Reports indicate Arsenal have a scholarship set to begin when he turns 16 on Dec. 31, with a professional deal only possible at 17 under FIFA rules, as the club implements education and safeguarding measures while managing his minutes.