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Arsenal have been given a boost as they look to further youngster Max Dowman's development next season.
Jeorge Bird revealed the Hale End star is now officially classed as an Under-16 player in terms of age, meaning he can be called up in the Premier League if required.
There is a high likelihood he will have some involvement with the first team next campaign following reports in May that he will join the Gunners' pre-season tour of Asia in a matter of weeks. Now being eligible to play in the Prem, he could have more chances to appear competitively for the senior side.
Arsenal given boost in academy star's development next season
Max Dowman is now officially an U16 player in terms of age, which means he can now be called up in the Premier League if required.
— Jeorge Bird (@jeorgebird) June 29, 2025
Dowman doesn't turn 16 until 31 December, meaning he could follow in the footsteps of fellow Hale Ender Ethan Nwaneri in becoming one of the youngest Premier League history. While he will obviously be eased into the first team, he will be looking to head in the same direction of Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Pre-season will be the first step for Dowman to become fully involved with the senior squad. If he does make the trip to Asia, he will surely be given a few minutes by Mikel Arteta and that could lead into the odd chance next season.
He will likely be given chances in the early stages of cup competitions, but now he is available to play in the league, Arteta may be tempted to give him some minutes. His talent is very clear and he will need an adjustment period, but could come off the bench every now and then.
There will be no rush to get Dowman involved in serious first team action, but it is a boost that he can now be used in the Prem. Giving players the odd league appearance at an age as young as his has worked with the likes of Nwaneri and Cesc Fabregas and Dowman's talent means it may work well with him. He will definitely benefit from any experience he can get.
It'll be good to see some more new blood introduced to the first team next season and I, along with every other fan, am excited to see him be given some chances.