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Max Dowman is set to follow in the footsteps of Arsenal first-team stars Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri by becoming the next Hale End academy breakout star.
The 15-year-old is one of the most exciting prospects in the Gunners' esteemed academy and has caught the eye at Under-18 level. His performances seemingly haven't gone unnoticed by Mikel Arteta and the senior coaching staff.
Dowman has yet to even take his GCSE's but could find himself playing alongside high-profile names such as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka this summer. He's knocking on the first-team door and that looks likely to result in appearances during the club's pre-season tour of Asia.
Max Dowman set for first-team spot in Arsenal's pre-season
Arsenal head off for their pre-season tour of Asia and the Gunners' first game comes against AC Milan on July 23. There will be an onus on Arteta getting his troops ready and prepared for a crucial season in his and the club's history after a third failed title pursuit.
That said, the Spaniard has the chance to look at Dowman because The Mirror reports that the 13-cap England U17 international will be part of Arteta's squad. He has also been "told he will be part of the first team next season".
Dowman is an elegant attacking midfielder who is earning comparisons to Real Madrid legend Kaka. He has shown maturity beyond his years, including a stellar showing in an FA Youth Cup loss to Manchester United in February.
The Chelmsford-born wonderkid was ineligible to play this season because he's yet to turn 16. Many feel he'll be used similarly to Nwaneri, 18, who was handed his debut by Arteta aged 15 in September 2022.
Max Dowman For Arsenal U18s and England U17s | |
|---|---|
Team: | Arsenal U18 |
Appearances: | 25 |
Goals: | 20 |
Assists: | 10 |
Arsenal's Dowman still expected to attend school
School won't go out the window for Dowman, and it's expected that attending lessons will take priority over training. But with such huge potential and the prospect of first-team football next season, it can't be too long until he is permanently swapping desks and homework for Champions League nights and meetings with Arteta.
The Spaniard has already seen Dowman in action as he was included in the Gunners' first team for their mid-season trip to Dubai. He'll also be sharing a call-up to the senior squad with participation at the U17 European Championships.
The Young Lions' tournament starts on Tuesday (May 20) when they face Belgium in Albania. Rival fans will be able to get a glimpse of just how special the attacking gem is.
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