Max Dowman joins Wayne Rooney in an exclusive list of stars

In partnership with

Just Arsenal News

·16 September 2026

Max Dowman joins Wayne Rooney in an exclusive list of stars

Max Dowman was in superb form as Arsenal beat Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup last night, with the youngster also making a piece of history with his performance. His display provided a timely reminder of his ability and potential, particularly after a period in which opportunities have been limited.

Before the fixture, there had been discussions about his lack of action this season, with Mikel Arteta assuring him that his opportunity would come and that he simply needed to continue preparing for it. Dowman has remained focused despite the competition for places within the Arsenal squad.

OneFootball Videos

Dowman makes his opportunity count

Dowman has been one of the finest graduates from the Arsenal academy and has performed well for the club since breaking into the first team. However, there is serious competition for game time this term, meaning that he has spent much of the campaign on the bench.

The League Cup fixture allowed Arteta to make changes to his squad, and the manager took advantage of the occasion by bringing Dowman into the team. The youngster responded by producing an impressive performance and making the most of the trust placed in him.

Dowman repaid that trust with two goals, becoming only the second 16-year-old to score twice in a competitive match for a Premier League team. He joined Wayne Rooney, who scored a double for Everton against Wrexham in 2002, according to Talk Sport.

(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

A significant moment for the youngster

Rooney went on to become an icon in the game, and Dowman will hope that his own career can develop in a similar manner. His latest performance represents another significant moment in his progress and could provide further confidence as he continues his development.

The youngster has already shown that he can perform when given the opportunity, and his two goal display against Ipswich Town underlined his ability to make an impact. With competition for places remaining strong, continued preparation will be important for Dowman as he looks to earn more opportunities.

His performance also demonstrated the value of taking chances when they arise. Dowman now has another memorable achievement to add to his development, while his two goals have placed him alongside Rooney in a notable piece of football history.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…