Arsenal starlet Max Dowman creates England history – but fans left furious over teenager’s treatment

Max Dowman wrote his name into the record books again as he starred for England Under-19s against Spain.

The Arsenal wonderkid was named in the line-up for the Young Lions’ 3-3 draw in Murcia, and became the youngest starter in the age group’s history in the process.

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Aged just 15, Dowman had made his debut for Will Antwi’s team after coming off the bench against Ukraine Under-19s on Wednesday.

In doing so, he became the youngest-ever player for England Under-19s, before chalking up another record against Spain on Saturday.

Dowman recently became the second-youngest player in Premier League history when he made his Arsenal debut against Leeds.

After impressing in pre-season, his 27-minute cameo in the league left many Gunners fans convinced they were witnessing a future star.

How did Dowman perform for England Under-19s?

Dowman only managed to whet the appetite more with his national side, as the youngster put in a dazzling display.

Clips from the game quickly went viral on social media, with the young playmaker’s huge talent on full show.

The Arsenal starlet showcased his impressing dribbling ability, with footage showing him skipping past tackles with ease, and helping to put attacks together.

On one occasion his skill led to a goal, winning a penalty in the fifth minute as he was tripped up after leaving a defender for dead.

England converted the penalty, while Spain were forced to resort to desperate measures to keep Dowman at bay.

So much so in fact, that the 15-year-old was fouled ten times in the first half alone.

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What did fans have to say about Dowman?

The harsh treatment didn’t go unnoticed by Arsenal’s supporters, who were keeping a close eye on the teenager’s progress.

Many of them took to social media to share their anger at the rough treatment Dowman received in the match.

One fan complained at a lack of protection from the referee, writing: “They were nasty fouls man.

“At what point do we say don’t play at any level under u21’s due to this treatment.”

Another concerned user wrote: “Are they trying to kill him?”

One more fan added: “Arsenal has to protect Max Dowman, i saw the video of him getting fouled in the first half, and it was shameful that ref didn’t give any yellow for protection !”

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Despite voicing their concerns, supporters were also quick to comment on Dowman’s encouraging display.

An excited fan said: “When he gets the ball you just know something magical is going to happen.”

Another posted: “He is top level talent, probably best in England, maybe in world in his age group.”

There is every chance we could soon see more of Dowman on the big stage.

Arseanl boss Mikel Arteta has been impressed with him and showed that by naming him in his Champions League squad for the competition’s league phase.

If Dowman makes it onto the pitch, he could become the youngest-ever player to feature in the competition, with the current record being held by Youssoufa Moukoko, who played for Borussia Dortmund at the age of 16 years 18 days in 2020.