Arsenal Debuts Two 15-Year-Olds Including Max Dowman in Preseason Win Over AC Milan

Max Dowman, a 15-year-old Arsenal academy talent, is making significant strides towards a first-team role, exemplified by his inclusion in Arsenal's pre-season tour squad in Asia and his impactful substitute appearance in the 1-0 win over AC Milan. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Dowman's ability to perform at a high level despite his youth, emphasizing the club's supportive environment that nurtures young players and the need for Dowman to continue improving his physicality to secure regular first-team minutes. Dowman has impressed not only with his technical skills but also with his composure, as demonstrated by his confident penalty in a shootout against Milan. While traditionally an attacking midfielder, Arsenal's squad listing and tactical flexibility under Arteta suggest Dowman might be deployed in a more advanced forward role, similar to how the club has repositioned other young players like Bukayo Saka. The club's faith in Dowman is evident as he trains regularly with the senior squad and is viewed as one of the brightest prospects following in the footsteps of established stars such as Saka and Ethan Nwaneri. Alongside him, 15-year-old defender Marli Salmon is also gaining valuable first-team exposure on the tour, highlighting Arsenal's commitment to promoting youth talent.