Max Dowman Poised to Become Youngest Premier League Starter
Teen sensation Max Dowman will make history on May 24 when Arsenal F.C. host Crystal Palace F.C. at 4 p.m. The 16‑year‑old and 144‑day‑old midfielder is set to start his first Premier League match, surpassing the previous record held by former Everton player Jose Baxter, who debuted at 16 years and 198 days in 2008.
A Season of Record‑Breaking Feats
Dowman’s breakthrough season has already produced a series of Premier League firsts. Earlier this campaign he became the youngest player to win a Premier League medal after Arsenal secured the title. In November 2025 he appeared in the UEFA Champions League at just 15 years and 308 days, making him the youngest ever participant in the competition.
His Premier League journey began in August 2025 when, at 15 years and 235 days, he became the league’s youngest debutant. A few months later, in March, he netted against Everton to claim the title of the league’s youngest goalscorer at 16 years and 73 days.
Arsenal’s Title Celebration and Guard of Honour
Following their league triumph, Arsenal will receive a guard of honour at Selhurst Park. Players who make at least five league appearances qualify for a winners’ medal, a milestone Dowman is on track to achieve.
Tottenham’s Relegation Battle Under De Zerbi
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur face a crucial final day clash with Everton. With only two points separating them from West Ham United in the relegation zone, a Spurs defeat coupled with a West Ham win over Leeds could see the North London side drop into the Championship for the first time since 1977.
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi acknowledged the pressure but expressed confidence in his squad. He said, “It’s still an honour to be a coach for Tottenham, even if on Sunday we play for the relegation fight, it’s not a problem. I consider football something more than the league table… We are fighting for something very important for everyone. It is football. But we have enough quality. To attack the pressure, you have to find the valour inside of yourself, to understand the situation and force yourself to give your best.”
De Zerbi added that a draw against Everton would likely secure Tottenham’s survival thanks to their superior goal difference over West Ham. He contrasted the current scenario with his previous relegation experience at Benevento Calcio in 2018, noting the differences in player quality, club stature, and the emotional dynamics of fighting to stay up versus competing for European places.
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