Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent a firm message to 16-year-old prospect Max Dowman, reminding him that the senior squad requires total discipline and maturity. The youngster recently received a three-match suspension after picking up a red card during Arsenal's Carabao Cup clash with Fleetwood Town.
Dowman was sent off in the 85th minute of the encounter after reacting angrily to a rough challenge from Fleetwood's Harrison Neal. The Gunners eventually lost the fixture on penalties, sealing a frustrating outing that was compounded by the teenager's moment of indiscretion.
Speaking about the development on Friday, Arteta disclosed that he had cautioned Dowman about dealing with on-pitch provocation prior to the match, according to Punch. The manager noted that there are no personal grievances between them following a private discussion on Thursday, but pointed out that senior football comes with stern expectations.
Arteta explained that while the coaching staff protects the young player, he must still earn his place through proper conduct and performance. He stated that the club is not operating in Disneyland, stressing that the demands of elite football require every player to handle pressure and disappointment without losing control.
The dismissal against Fleetwood marked Dowman's second red card in recent weeks. The teenager was also sent off earlier in the month while on international duty with the England Under-19 team during an encounter against the United States.
Arsenal lodged an appeal against the suspension, but the Football Association rejected the move and upheld the three-match ban. While Arteta voiced disappointment with the verdict, he noted that the club was relieved Dowman avoided a broken foot from the original tackle.
