Dowman makes Arsenal history in EFL Cup win

LONDON – Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman became the youngest player ever to start a competitive match for the club after being named in the lineup for Wednesday’s 2–0 EFL Cup victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium.

The 15-year-old, aged 15 years and 302 days, surpassed the previous record set by goalkeeper Jack Porter, who started in the same competition last season at 16 years and 72 days. Dowman, who made his senior debut earlier this campaign against Leeds United, is now the second-youngest player to appear in both Arsenal and Premier League history—behind Ethan Nwaneri, who featured at 15 years and 181 days in 2022.

Dowman featured for 71 minutes before being replaced by Bukayo Saka, who went on to score Arsenal’s second goal to seal progression into the quarterfinals. Manager Mikel Arteta praised the midfielder’s composure and maturity after the match.

“He just smiles and gets on with it,” Arteta said. “For him, everything is natural. He plays with courage, determination, and skill beyond his years. To run past Premier League players at 15 is something truly special.”

The EFL Cup tie marked Dowman’s fourth senior appearance as Arteta continues to balance the teenager’s rapid development with careful management. The Spaniard emphasized the importance of guiding the youngster through the challenges of early exposure to top-flight football.

“He wants to play in the Premier League, no question,” Arteta added. “But it’s happening very fast. We need to protect him, make sure he takes the right steps, and help him adapt to everything that comes with it.”

Dowman, a lifelong Arsenal supporter, is currently under a scholarship agreement that will become active when he turns 16 on December 31. Under FIFA regulations, he cannot sign a professional contract until his 17th birthday, leaving Arsenal to monitor interest from several European clubs.

Club sources indicate, however, that Dowman is committed to continuing his development in north London. His emergence underscores Arsenal’s continued focus on youth integration under Arteta, following the pathway established by academy graduates such as Nwaneri, Saka, and Emile Smith Rowe.

If managed carefully, Dowman’s rise could further cement Arsenal’s reputation as one of Europe’s leading developers of young talent.