Arsenal players get heated over 15-year-old prodigy

Training sessions at Arsenal have become lively as 15-year-old talent Max Dowman repeatedly frustrates senior players with daring moves, even nutmegging first-team members multiple times.

During a recent Arsenal training, coach Mikel Arteta revealed that many first-team players got annoyed after repeatedly being nutmegged by young prospect Max Dowman. However, what started as irritation has now turned into admiration and special affection for the 15-year-old.

Arteta recounted: “At first, the players’ reaction was clear: ‘Give him a kick!’ But Max just got up and kept playing without fear. For someone who was only 14 last year to do that against older players is impressive. Now everyone loves him.”

From being a “thorn” in training, Dowman has gradually become a “treasure” in the first team. Arteta admits the whole squad treats him like a little brother who needs protection: “You just want to hug the boy and help him. Dowman is very well-behaved and loved by everyone here. Our responsibility is to provide the best environment for his development.”

Max Dowman made his Premier League debut in August at just 15 years and 235 days old, becoming one of the youngest players in the league’s history. Despite his young age, Dowman has trained with Arsenal’s first team since last season and even joined their mid-summer training camp in Dubai.

During the England youth team camp in September, Dowman troubled Spain’s opponents by being fouled at least nine times, even causing the opposing left-back to receive a red card. This clearly demonstrates the youngster’s resilience and ability to handle pressure.

Now, as Arsenal prepares for their League Cup match against Port Vale, Dowman is likely to get more playing opportunities. With his remarkable progress, the 15-year-old midfielder is becoming a bright spot in Arteta’s long-term plans and excites the “Gunners” fans.