Overview

• The 15-year-old midfielder impressed with composed cameos against AC Milan and Newcastle United, drawing a foul on Joelinton to win the decisive penalty in a 3-2 victory.
• Manager Mikel Arteta described Dowman’s performance as “not common to witness for a 15-year-old” and said the club are “extremely happy to have him.”
• Vice-captain Declan Rice hailed him on social media as “the best 15-year-old in the country,” underscoring his growing reputation within the squad.
• Supporters and pundits have compared Dowman to generational talents such as Lionel Messi, fueling calls for careful management of expectations.
• With Premier League rules barring under-16s from competitive matches until December, Arsenal are planning a measured integration to protect his development ahead of a possible first-team debut.