Max Dowman – Arsenal’s Emerging Jewel

Arsenal's academy has enjoyed a burgeoning renaissance since the arrival of Mikel Arteta as head coach/manager in December 2019 and Per Mertesacker as Academy manager in July 2018. Establishing Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe as fully fledged first team players in 2020-21 to Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly becoming one of the main bright spots in Arsenal's 2024-25 season.

Hale End has played its part in Arsenal re-establishing itself as one of the biggest clubs in Europe. However, there is another jewel blossoming at Hale End in 15 year old Max Dowman, a youngster with a growing reputation that has increased exponentially this season with multiple eye catching displays.

Born on New Year's Eve in 2009, Dowman was signed as a youngster and his talents were quickly noticed by coaches at Hale End. Then U18 manager Jack Wilshere would give Dowman his debut in September 2023 at the age of just 13 in a 20-minute cameo vs Southampton.

Though still growing as a teenager, his next appearance for the U18s wasn't until March 2024 as a 14 year old vs Fulham. He would first hit the headlines by making four assists for Chido Obi (prior to his move to Manchester United) in a 5-2 win. Wilshere was quick to praise Dowman’s efforts: