Top 10 Unveiled
Arsenal fans were not surprised when 15-year-old Max Dowman was named in the starting lineup for their EFL Cup match against Brighton. This illustrates the immense hype surrounding the young Gunners talent. Before the match, Dowman had already made three brief appearances in the first team this season, but his first start generated considerable excitement. He is a player who captivates fans and appears destined for a remarkable career. ‘He’s got school in the morning’ could be heard from various sections of the Emirates, while many were left awestruck by his skill in outmaneuvering seasoned opponents at such a young age.
Dowman was Arsenal’s standout attacking player in the first half, showcasing impressive runs before being substituted for Bukayo Saka after 71 minutes, in a match that ended with a 2-0 victory for Arsenal. By making the starting XI, Dowman not only became the youngest player to start a match for Arsenal but also the youngest to start for a Premier League club. In fact, he is now the youngest player to start a game for any top-five league club this century, setting a significant milestone. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his confidence before the match, stating, “When you look at what he does in training, you have to play him.” Dowman, who doesn’t turn 16 until New Year’s Eve, raises questions about what lies ahead for him this season and in the long run.
What Type of Player is Max Dowman?
Dowman stands out for his awareness, confidence, and exceptional ball control. His innate ability to manipulate his body and evade defenders makes him a challenging opponent. Coupled with his impressive ball-striking and finishing, he presents a formidable prospect. At times, it seems almost impossible for defenders to stop him. However, as he enters a pivotal phase in his development, it remains uncertain whether he can continue this level of performance at the highest tier. Nonetheless, at this juncture, it appears that only injuries or attitude could hinder his rise to the top.
The statistics from Dowman’s time with the Arsenal U18 team are staggering. As shown in the graphic above, he achieved 20 goals and 10 assists in just 25 matches. Considering that A) he is not a striker and B) he is still just 15 years old until late December, these figures are astonishing. The question now is, how will he fit into Arteta’s long-term plans? At the youth level, Dowman primarily played as an attacking midfielder or right winger. He has been deployed in those positions during his first-team appearances, which seems to be where he feels most comfortable. However, with Saka ahead of him, Dowman’s versatility may be vital for his chances to shine. He clearly possesses the potential to be considered a generational talent — let’s compare his age with other young starters in the top five leagues.
Youngest Starters for Top-5 League Clubs This Century
At just 15 years and nine months, Dowman is far ahead of the pack as the youngest starter for a top-five league club since 2000. In second place is Lille’s promising midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who made his debut in 2023 at 16 years old. Just behind him by a few days is Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko, who started in 2020 at the age of 16. Fourth on the list is the young talent Lamine Yamal, who debuted for Barcelona at 16 years and one month in 2023. Fifth is Stefano Okaka, who made his initial appearance for Roma at 16 years and one month back in 2005.
Sixth on the list is another young Arsenal player, goalkeeper Jack Porter, who started the EFL Cup tie against Bolton last season at the age of 16 years and two months. Seventh is Pietro Pellegri, who started for Genoa in 2017 at 16 years and two months. Following him is the dynamic French striker Neal Maupay, who started for Nice at the same age in 2012. Fabrice Olinga took ninth place when he started for Malaga at 16 years and three months in 2012, while French playmaker Rayan Cherki rounds out the top ten, starting for Lyon in 2019 at 16 years and four months.
