Incredible Arsenal youngster about to 'take GCSEs' and could be 'fast-tracked' into first team soon

Arsenal youngster Max Dowman is expected to be fast-tracked after his impressive performances for the Under-18’s team.

Dowman made his under-18s debut in September 2023, aged just 13, and has continued to impress with assists - and now goals - for Jack Wilshere's side.

The England under-16 midfielder provided four assists for Chido-Obi Martin against Fulham last weekend, before scoring his first goal for the under-18’s at home to West Brom on Saturday.

Those inside the club insist that 14-year-old Dowman will be managed carefully but under-18’s coach Jack Wilshere has admitted that he’s far ahead in his development so far.

“There's always a concern when fielding such a young player in these matches, but if you’re good enough, you’re old enough,” said Wilshere.

"He can be more consistent but he’s only 14 and hasn't even started his GCSEs yet. We need to find a balance of letting him play and enjoy because of his age but also trying to get as much work into him as we can.”

"I'm not surprised that he's adapted well because he's a talented player. It's a testament to the dedication and effort put in by the staff at Hale End over the past few years.

“While he still has a long way to go, it will require a combined effort from both Hale End and everyone here at the Sobha Realty Training Centre to further his development.

“However, he's on the right track, and hopefully, he can maintain his form, stay fit and healthy, and continue to progress.”

The Hale End academy has seen the likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe work their way up to first team football in recent years, with Ethan Nwaneri becoming the youngster player to feature in a top-flight game when he came on against Brentford in September 2022, aged just 15.