Arsenal’s Max Dowman Sets Record as Youngest Starting Player

Max Dowman has made history by becoming the youngest starting player for Arsenal FC. He achieved this milestone during the Carabao Cup fourth round match against Brighton. At just 15 years and 302 days old, Dowman surpassed the previous record held by his teammate Jack Porter.
Milestone Achievements by Max Dowman
This record-setting appearance follows Dowman’s earlier achievement of becoming the second-youngest player in Premier League history. He debuted last month against Leeds United. This made him a significant figure in both Arsenal’s and the Premier League’s young talent roster.
Previous Record Holder
Jack Porter previously held the record as the youngest starter for Arsenal. He started against Bolton Wanderers at the age of 16 years and 72 days. Dowman has now eclipsed Porter by 135 days, marking a significant progression for the club’s youth.
List of Arsenal’s Youngest Starting Players
- Max Dowman – Brighton, League Cup, 15 years 302 days (October 2025)
- Jack Porter – Bolton, League Cup, 16 years 72 days (September 2024)
- Cesc Fabregas – Rotherham, League Cup, 16 years 177 days (October 2003)
- Jack Wilshere – Sheffield United, League Cup, 16 years 266 days (September 2008)
- Gerry Ward – Huddersfield, First Division, 16 years 321 days (August 1953)
- David O’Leary – Burnley, First Division, 17 years 106 days (August 1975)
- Serge Gnabry – Reading, League Cup, 17 years 108 days (October 2012)
- Arturo Lupoli – Manchester City, League Cup, 17 years 125 days (October 2004)
- Richie Powling – QPR, First Division, 17 years 159 days (October 1973)
- Ethan Nwaneri – Bolton, League Cup, 17 years 188 days (September 2024)
Looking Forward: Potential Future Records
Max Dowman is now aspiring to become the youngest goalscorer in Arsenal’s history. The current record is held by Cesc Fabregas, who scored his first goal at 16 years and 212 days. Should Dowman find the net this season, he would surpass that mark and cement his place in the club’s storied history.
Arsenal’s Youngest Scorers
| Player | Opponent | Competition | Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cesc Fabregas | Wolves | League Cup | 16y 212d |
| Jack Wilshere | Sheffield United | League Cup | 16y 266d |
| Stewart Robson | Ipswich | First Division | 17y 127d |
| Arturo Lupoli | Everton | League Cup | 17y 138d |
| Ethan Nwaneri | Bolton | League Cup | 17y 188d |
As he continues to develop, Max Dowman is poised to make an even bigger impact on Arsenal and potentially redefine records within the club.




