Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Max Dowman after the 15-year-old midfielder made history in Arsenal’s 2-0 Carabao Cup fourth-round victory over Brighton, becoming the youngest starter in the club’s history at just 15 years and 302 days.
ARTETA: “HE JUST SMILES — NOTHING FASES HIM”
Dowman, who began training with Arsenal’s first team at 14, delivered an electric performance — attempting nine dribbles (five successful) and winning nine duels, more than any player on the pitch.
When asked how the teenager reacted to being told he would start, Arteta smiled:
“A tiny smile — that’s all you get with him. Everything is natural for Max. He just plays, with courage and joy. That’s his secret.”
Arteta praised the midfielder’s fearlessness and maturity, describing his ability to glide past Premier League opponents at 15 as “something truly special.”
BALANCING SCHOOL AND STARDOM
Dowman already became Arsenal’s second-youngest player when he debuted in August’s 5-0 win over Leeds. If he features in the Champions League before New Year’s Eve, he will become the youngest player in the competition’s history.
But while the football world watches, Arteta insists on caution.
“He’s still in school, preparing for his GCSEs,” Arteta said. “Everything is happening very fast. We have to guide him, protect him, and make sure he takes the right steps.”
NEW GENERATION SHINES AT THE EMIRATES
Dowman wasn’t the only Hale End product to impress. Andre Harriman-Annous, 17, also made his full debut, linking up brilliantly with Jurrien Timber before Bukayo Saka sealed Arsenal’s second goal.
Arteta said:
“Since pre-season, Andre’s mentality has been incredible. He’s hungry, consistent, and ready. Today was the right moment for him — and he proved it.”
ANALYSIS: DOWMAN STANDS OUT IN HISTORIC NIGHT
Sky Sports’ Nick Wright reported from the Emirates that Dowman was “arguably Arsenal’s best player” on the night, noting his nine dribbles were the most by any Arsenal player this season.
After full-time, Dowman and Harriman-Annous walked arm-in-arm around the pitch, soaking in a night they’ll never forget. With fellow academy stars Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Bukayo Saka also shining, the evening felt like a celebration of Arsenal’s Hale End revolution — and a glimpse of a future already arriving faster than anyone expected.