Arsenal wonderkid smashes UEFA record at 14 years old with goal against Atalanta

Max Dowman has just made Arsenal history at the age of 14. With his goal against Atalanta in the UEFA Youth League, the wonderkid has become the youngest goalscorer in the tournament's history. The previous record holder was ex-Borussia Dortmund's Youssoufa Moukoko who was scored at 14 years, 11 months and 3 days old in 2019. Dowman has now set the record to 14 years, 8 months, and 19 days old.

The youngster not only smashed the UEFA record, but also became Arsenal's youngest ever player to feature in the competition - edging Kaylen Hinds who made his first appearance when he was 15 years old back in 2013.

Arsenal have been impressed by the player, allowing him to train with the first-team as well as the U18 side. Gunners youth coach Jack Wilshere has also praised the player, while also mentioning the challenge in managing such bright talent at a young age. The former midfielder said: “There's always a concern when fielding such a young player in these matches, but if you’re good enough, you’re old enough. 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," he concluded. 

The Youth League showdown took place ahead of the two teams’ senior sides facing each other in their opening game of the Champions League. Dowman's individual performance deserves to be celebrated, despite the 4-1 loss suffered by Arsenal to the Italians.

 

September 19, 2024