Max Dowman was born on 31 December 2009 in Chelmsford, Essex, and began his footballing life at local club Billericay Town before joining Arsenal's academy at the age of eight. He progressed rapidly through the youth ranks, becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League when he netted against Atalanta in September 2024 at just 14 years old, and later the youngest player to appear in a Premier League 2 fixture.
Dowman made his Premier League debut on 23 August 2025 as a substitute against Leeds United, becoming the second youngest player in the competition's history at 15 years and 235 days. On 14 March 2026, he entered the record books again, scoring against Everton at 16 years and 73 days old to become the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history, breaking a record that had stood since 2005. He also became the youngest player to appear in the UEFA Champions League in November 2025, surpassing a record previously held by Youssoufa Moukoko.
An energetic and technically gifted attacking midfielder who can also operate as a right winger, Dowman is particularly noted for his composure on the ball, dribbling ability, and precise set-piece delivery. Arsenal have already secured his commitment through a pre-contract agreement, with professional terms set to be signed when he turns 17.
At international level, Dowman has represented England at U16, U17, and U19 level, scoring the opening goal at the 2025 UEFA European Under-17 Championship and becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer for the England U19 side in November 2025.