Arsenal star Max Dowman can break huge record, it's something even Lamine Yamal didn't manage

Max Dowman has the chance to achieve something that Lamine Yamal was not able to do after the youngster's breakthrough at Arsenal.

Paul Merson was left shocked by Dowman's impact since coming through the academy, coming on for the final few minutes of the Gunners' frustrating defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, 31 August.

Despite a positive display from Mikel Arteta's side at Anfield, Dominik Szoboszlai scored against David Raya with his long-range effort, which won the game for the Reds.

It still marked an incredible moment for the 15-year-old, who has taken the Premier League by storm after making his first-team debut during the 5-0 thrashing of newly promoted Leeds United.

Now, with Arsenal preparing to face Athletic Club in the Champions League, Dowman has the chance to create even more history, bypassing one of Barcelona's biggest talents in the process.

Max Dowman could become youngest-ever Champions League player

According to The Standard (3 September), Dowman will be eligible to feature in the Champions League, with no age limitations currently in place throughout UEFA competitions.

At just 15 years of age, the Arsenal prodigee could make his debut in the league phase of the competition this year, making him the youngest to ever feature in the Champions League.

Former Borussia Dortmund star Youssoufa Moukoko currently holds the record, with the likes of Yamal and Man City's Rayan Cherki playing in the competition at 16 years of age.

However, despite being born in the UK and being with the academy since 2015, he does not count as a "locally-trained" player, meaning he will have to take up a spot in Arteta's 25-man "A" team, including eight locally-trained players.

Dowman can play a special role for Mikel Arteta

Football Insider verdict

Dowman has been added to a squad filled to the brim with talent, with Andrea Berta working closely with the manager to get deals done before the window slammed shut on Monday, 1 September.

Arteta is under pressure to win trophies at Arsenal, having been knocked out of the Champions League by PSG, and losing out on the Premier League title to Liverpool.

There are now no excuses for the Spaniard, having not lifted a trophy since 2019/20, with the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze signing over the summer.

While Dowman is unlikely to play a starring role this season, even with Bukayo Saka on the sidelines, he is likely to write himself into the history books within weeks.

The youngster is likely eager for the international window to end already, but having been bumped up the age groups for England, he will be gaining valuable experience over the next two weeks.

Many youngsters have come and gone in the Premier League, but Dowman appears set to stamp his mark at the Emirates Stadium and become a big name for years to come.