Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta Confident in Retaining Young Star Max Dowman

Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that Arsenal’s promising teenager, Max Dowman, will remain with the club despite interest from rival teams. The 15-year-old midfielder recently signed a scholarship agreement that will take effect when he turns 16 on December 31, but FIFA regulations prevent him from signing a professional contract until he is at least 17.

As Dowman continues to attract attention from clubs across Europe, Arteta remains untroubled. Speaking to the media, he highlighted the positive feedback he has received from both the player and his family regarding their commitment to Arsenal. “I don’t think about those things because everything that I hear from the player and the family has been very positive,” Arteta stated.

The Arsenal manager emphasized that Dowman’s deep-rooted passion for the club plays a significant role in his decision-making. “He is a huge Arsenal supporter and his family are really happy with the way things are developing around him as well. Hopefully for many years he will be with us,” he added.

Dowman’s Development and Upcoming Matches

Dowman is set to feature in the matchday squad for Arsenal’s upcoming Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Brighton. He was not included in the under-21s squad for their recent defeat to Chelsea, indicating that the club is managing his exposure carefully. This match will mark Dowman’s fourth appearance for the senior team, a testament to his rapid development and the promise he has shown.

Arteta praised Dowman’s performances during the preseason tour in Singapore and Hong Kong, where he made notable contributions, including winning a penalty during his Premier League debut against Leeds in August. “If we looked at his passport every day we would never play him, simple as that,” Arteta remarked. “But when you look at what he does in training, you have to play him — if not, you are blind, or I’m blind.”

Arteta acknowledged the importance of balancing Dowman’s playing time with the need for careful management of his growth and overall well-being. “We really have to manage his load. He is 15 years old, still growing, and there are a lot of things we have to make sure are under control to ensure he develops in the way he can do,” he noted.

The manager remains calm about Dowman’s progression, stating that the plans put in place for the young talent are being effectively executed. “What we have decided for him for the first few months is happening. When we have to give him games, whether it is in the youth cup or with the U23s or with us, he has that,” Arteta confirmed.

With Dowman’s potential and the club’s commitment to his development, Arsenal fans are hopeful that the teenage star will continue to shine and remain a vital part of the team’s future.