Arsenal’s Teen Sensation Shines on Pre-Season Tour
Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Asia has been buzzing, not just for the wins but for a new face making waves.
Fifteen-year-old midfielder Max Dowman has caught the eyes of fans and pundits alike with performances that suggest he might be one of the club’s brightest young talents.
Fast-tracked into the first-team setup by Mikel Arteta, Dowman has already made a splash against top-level opposition, including winning a penalty in a 3-2 victory over Newcastle United and looking calm and composed in his debut against AC Milan in Singapore.
Keeping Expectations in Check
Despite the excitement surrounding Dowman, captain Martin Odegaard is urging caution.
While fans have gone as far as comparing the teenager to Lionel Messi, the senior squad is focused on giving him time to grow without undue pressure.
“He’s a top player, top talent, and I think everyone has seen it now in pre-season, what he’s done,” Odegaard said on the Men in Blazers podcast.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on him or create expectations that are too high.
We just need to give him time to be himself, to grow and learn. Everyone can see the quality—our job is to help him, support him, and make sure he can develop at his own pace. I’m sure he’s going to be a great player for us.”
Odegaard Draws on His Own Teen Experience
Odegaard knows all about the pressures of teenage stardom, having joined Real Madrid at just 16.
He hopes his own journey can help Dowman—and fellow 15-year-old Marli Salmon—navigate the challenges of senior football.
“Life can change really quickly when you step into the first team, so I can use my experience to give them advice here and there,” he said.
“The key thing is staying focused, working hard, and keeping your attention where it needs to be.
There’s going to be hype and expectations, but you have to enjoy your football at the same time.”
Following in the Footsteps of Hale End Graduates
Dowman’s rise mirrors the paths of Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, who made breakthroughs last season after coming through Arsenal’s Hale End academy.
Both players featured prominently, and the club believes Dowman has the potential to follow a similar trajectory.
Arteta himself has praised the young midfielder, calling his performances “special” and highlighting how quickly he has adapted to the senior setup.
“In my day, you wouldn’t see a 15-year-old ready to play at this level,” Arteta said after the win against Milan.
“They’re able to play at this level because of the environment and culture we’ve created.
But you still need the qualities this kid has to deliver against strong opposition.”
High Praise From Across the Squad
Even Declan Rice has weighed in, calling Dowman the best 15-year-old in the country after observing him in training and matches on tour.
The consensus is clear: Arsenal have something rare on their hands—but handling his development carefully will be crucial.
Balancing School and Football
Dowman faces the added challenge of sitting his GCSEs next spring, potentially coinciding with a critical period in Arsenal’s Premier League campaign.
With the team having finished runners-up three seasons in a row, Arteta and the squad are focused on making the final step up, while nurturing Dowman along the way.
“We need to take our lessons, get better, and improve day by day,” Odegaard said.
“We’ll fight and give everything, and we need the supporters with us throughout the season. I’m sure it’s going to be a special one.”
