The talent of Dowman has not been a shock for anyone who has been around Arsenal. He has been training with the first team squad since he was 14.
He was taken on the team’s warm weather training camp to Dubai in January and there were calls from supporters for him to be used during the last campaign when Arteta’s squad was decimated by injuries.
Dowman played for England Under-17s in the Euros in the summer and became the competition’s youngest scorer when he netted in a win over the Czech Republic.
He featured three years above his age group when playing for the Under-18s at Arsenal. Last season he scored 19 goals and provided five assists in 23 games, with 17 of those goal involvements coming in the last seven matches of the Under-18 Premier League South season (14 goals, three assists).
Age restrictions stopped him from making his Premier League debut last season but now he is eligible and with a potential hamstring injury to Saka, the young winger could be about to be thrust into the spotlight more often.
Dowman replaced Saka in four of the pre-season matches before being given time off to rest against Athletic Bilbao, but the winger looks full of energy in what could be his breakthrough season.
Arteta also said that he needs to “protect” Dowman on his journey but that has not stopped his team-mates heaping praise on him.
“I think everyone can see the potential he has. Playing against grown men. He is a joy to watch, for the crowd too he is a joy to watch. Hopefully, he will have many amazing years here.” Jurrien Timber said after the match.
And with injuries for Arsenal trio Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard and Saka, there may be more Premier League opportunities heading Dowman’s way.