Max Dowman puts himself in Mikel Arteta’s mind before Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid

Max Dowman was one of Arsenal’s breakout stars this summer and the 15-year-old proved exactly why he is exciting the North Londoners fanbase

Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman showcased his talent with two expertly taken penalties as the Gunners’ Under-19s suffered an agonising 4-3 defeat to Atletico Madrid. The youngster stepped up to take spot-kick responsibilities for the Gunners youth team against their Spanish counterparts in the UEFA Youth League, competing four years above his natural age bracket.

The Chelmsford-born sensation has already made his senior bow this campaign, becoming the Premier League’s second youngest ever player when the Gunners overcame Leeds United 5-0. Against Atletico, he demonstrated remarkable poise alongside his older team-mates and displayed excellent composure from twelve yards on both occasions.

His opening penalty saw him deceive Atletico stopper Daniel Rubio before thundering home his second effort with authority. These clinical finishes will serve as a timely reminder to Arteta regarding his exceptional ability, particularly with the Gunners preparing to welcome Atletico to north London for their Champions League encounter.

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Following the contest, Arsenal supporters couldn’t contain their enthusiasm. One fan declared: “Give him a lifetime contract” while another labelled him a “generational talent.”

A third supporter suggested his colleagues were becoming overly dependent on him, posting: “Yes, this is why we still need him here till they build back their confidence.” Another admirer dubbed him “Star Boy Dowman” – which is the same moniker frequently given to Bukayo Saka.

One particularly animated fan gushed about Dowman’s performance, writing: “This brother scores every game. He might be the next thing to Messi.”

Unfortunately for his team-mates, Dowman’s composure from 12 yards couldn’t seal them a win. Harrison Dudziak capped off a brilliant team move to put David Horseman’s young Arsenal outfit ahead, before Sergio Vinatea drew the visitors level.

Dowman’s opening penalty restored Arsenal’s advantage, only for Sergio Esteban to then equalise from the spot himself. Ruben Gomez then fired the Spanish side in front for the first time, before Dowman levelled matters with his second penalty.

Arsenal couldn’t hang on for a point as Pablo Barrios struck from the back post to hand Atletico victory. Dowman is regarded as one of the nation’s most promising young talents and reinforced that reputation with an assist in the triumph over Leeds.

Yet he hasn’t appeared since a one-minute cameo in the 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield. He’s been named in the squads for wins against Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Fulham, but was missing for the stalemate with Manchester City and victory over West Ham.

Back in August, Arteta confirmed the youngster would get chances with the first team, whilst having his playing time carefully monitored. The Spaniard said: “Well, he’s going to be in and around the team.

“We’re going to have to manage his development very well, his next steps, and now we are fully connected with everybody in order to achieve that.

“So [we want to] make sure that we give the platform that he needs, the time that he needs, the environment that he needs. I’m sure he’s going to push every door towards the first team and have opportunities with us.”

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