Arsenal are currently dealing with an injury crisis, and the situation worsened when Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring injury last week, ruling him out for the rest of the season. His absence adds to an already lengthy injury list that includes Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ben White.
This injury pile-up comes at a pivotal point in the 2024/25 season, as Mikel Arteta’s squad aims to close the seven-point gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool. However, with a congested February fixture schedule and no recognized center-forward available, the challenge of ending Arsenal’s two-decade-long title drought becomes even more pressing.
While the January transfer window has closed, free agents such as Maxi Gomez and Carlos Vela remain potential emergency signings. However, Arsenal might explore an unconventional solution—though they would first need approval from the Premier League.
Arsenal Considering Academy Talent
15-year-old Max Dowman Could Be an Option
With Havertz sidelined, Arteta has limited attacking options and may be forced to start 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri alongside Raheem Sterling and Leandro Trossard. If further injuries or suspensions arise, Arsenal’s attacking depth could be stretched even thinner.
As a result, Arteta might turn to Hale End academy for reinforcements. One standout prospect is 15-year-old Max Dowman, an attacking midfielder Arsenal academy coach Gustavo Oliveira has compared to Kaka. Despite training with the first-team squad, Dowman is ineligible for Premier League action due to league regulations preventing players below the Under-16 level from featuring in senior matches.
Dowman was registered with Arsenal’s Under-15 squad before the season started, but according to the Daily Mail, the club may apply for special dispensation to include him in the first team given their injury crisis. However, it remains uncertain whether the Premier League would approve such a request.
The young midfielder’s talent has been highlighted by his recent call-up to the England Under-17 squad. Considered one of the most promising prospects at Arsenal, Dowman is already training with the Under-18s—four years ahead of schedule—while receiving guidance from Myles Lewis-Skelly as he progresses toward senior football.
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