Arsenal’s youngest ever PL winner misses training for GCSEs

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Arsenal returned to training on Thursday following their historic Premier League title triumph, but one notable absentee had the perfect excuse for missing the session.

Max Dowman, who became the youngest Premier League winner in history at just 16 years old, was sitting his GCSE exams instead of joining his teammates on the training ground.

The teenager made history when Arsenal sealed their first Premier League title in 22 years on Tuesday night, after Manchester City could only manage a draw at Bournemouth. Dowman has made 12 appearances across all competitions this season, establishing himself as a key part of Mikel Arteta’s squad despite his tender age.

According to the BBC, this week’s GCSE examinations include subjects such as English language, business, economics and physical education, though it’s unclear which specific subjects Dowman is studying.

The timing couldn’t be better for the young star, as next week is half-term, allowing him to focus entirely on Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday 30 May.

Arsenal are preparing for their final Premier League fixture of the season away to Crystal Palace on Sunday, before turning their attention to European glory. The Champions League final will be followed by a trophy parade around Islington the next day.

Merino returns from injury

The Gunners received positive news on the injury front, with midfielder Mikel Merino returning to training after being sidelined since the end of January with a long-term foot injury. His return provides Arteta with additional depth as the club prepares for their European showpiece.

Dowman’s situation perfectly encapsulates the unique position young players find themselves in when breaking through at the highest level. While his teammates celebrate becoming Premier League champions, the teenager must balance his football success with his educational commitments.

The academy graduate’s remarkable rise has been one of the standout stories of Arsenal’s title-winning campaign. His 12 appearances across all competitions demonstrate the trust Arteta has placed in him, despite his age.

Arsenal’s triumph ends a 22-year wait for Premier League glory, with supporters finally able to celebrate their first title since the Invincibles season of 2003-04. The achievement becomes even more special knowing that players like Dowman, who weren’t even born during that historic campaign, have played their part in bringing the trophy back to north London.