Fifteen-year-old Arsenal sensation Max Dowman has earned widespread acclaim after being described as a “miracle player” following the Gunners’ commanding 3-0 victory over Sparta Prague in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.
The teenage midfielder etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in a Champions League match, stepping onto the pitch at just 15 years and 308 days old. His debut broke the previous record set by Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko, who made his appearance at 16 years and 18 days in December 2020.
Arsenal took control of the match early on, with Bukayo Saka converting from the penalty spot before Mikel Merino added a brace in the second half to seal a comfortable win for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Dowman’s introduction in the second half caught many by surprise, including members of the opposing team who were astonished by his composure and maturity on the ball.
“I know which player it was, but I had no idea he was fifteen years old,” Sparta captain Lukas Provod told reporters after the match.
Sparta defender David Zima also expressed his admiration for the youngster, saying:
“Every now and then a miracle player is born. This is actually a grown-up player when you see him on the pitch.”
Adding his voice, Sparta head coach Jindrich Trpisovsky commended Dowman’s performance, noting that the England youth international looked completely at ease against seasoned professionals.
The record-breaking appearance marks another milestone for Arsenal’s academy, which continues to produce world-class talent following in the footsteps of stars like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe.
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