Mikel Arteta described Max Dowman becoming the Premier League’s youngest ever goalscorer as a “magical moment” after Arsenal secured a late 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.
The Gunners moved closer to ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title thanks to a dramatic late surge at the Emirates Stadium.
Downman, introduced from the bench with 16 minutes remaining, proved decisive in the closing moments of the match.
The 16-year-old delivered a cross in the 89th minute that eventually allowed Victor Gyokeres to break the deadlock after Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford misjudged the delivery.
Moments later, Dowman sealed the victory in dramatic fashion. With Pickford having ventured forward for a late corner, the teenager sprinted from deep inside his own half before calmly slotting the ball into an empty net during stoppage time.
Dowman set a new record as the youngest scorer in the Premier League history at 16 years and 73 days.
The teenage sensation has already enjoyed a remarkable season. Earlier in the campaign, he became Arsenal’s youngest ever starter and also the youngest player to feature in the UEFA Champions League, both achievements coming when he was still 15.
“It was a great moment, especially with the way the goal built up. We had 10 or 15 seconds to really enjoy what was about to happen,” Arteta said. “It was magical, all the bench and players together jumping up with the crowd. It was a beautiful day.”
The victory opened a 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League table for Arsenal over Manchester City, although City still have two games in hand.
Arteta admitted his side struggled to create clear chances for much of the match, but praised Dowman’s impact after his introduction.
“He changed the game every time he got the ball. He made things happen and we looked like more of a threat,” Arteta said.
“To do it at that age, in this context, with the pressure and expectations to win the game, it’s just not normal. It’s natural for him. He doesn’t feel the pressure. That’s the best thing.”
Gyokeres also made a key contribution after being left out of the starting lineup in favour of Kai Havertz. The Swedish striker reacted quickest when the ball deflected off Piero Hincapie following Dowman’s cross, allowing him to tap home the opener.
Arteta celebrated both goals passionately on the touchline, reflecting the tension inside the stadium during a nervy contest.
“There are times when we have to be patient because with all the dominance and the amount of shots we have, when we don’t score the anxiety builds,” the Spaniard added.
“You have to stay composed, be relentless in your desire to win the game and make something happen. The team had the spirit today.”
