Arteta Stresses Need for Belief Ahead of Cup Clash
Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, has expressed confidence that rival teams will not tempt away the club’s teenage sensation, Max Dowman, before he is eligible to sign a professional contract. Dowman, who is just 15 years old, recently committed to a scholarship agreement that will take effect when he turns 16 on December 31.
FIFA regulations prohibit players from signing professional contracts until they reach the age of 17, leaving Arsenal in a position where they must protect their promising talent who has garnered interest from clubs across Europe. However, insiders have indicated that Dowman, a lifelong Arsenal supporter, is keen to remain at the club. Arteta downplayed any concerns about the young playmaker finding opportunities elsewhere during a press conference on Tuesday.
“I don’t think about those things because I have received very positive feedback from both the player and his family,” Arteta conveyed. “That is our hope, and it seems to align with what he wants as well. Ultimately, it’s up to [sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the club to secure his future. My impression is that he genuinely loves it here, and his family is pleased with his development. We hope to keep him for many years to come.”
Dowman is likely to be included in the squad for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Brighton. He was not part of the under-21 team that lost 2-1 to Chelsea last weekend.
This upcoming match could mark Dowman’s fourth appearance for the senior squad, as Arteta seeks to balance the protection of the young player with the need to reward his impressive performances witnessed during the pre-season tour in Singapore and Hong Kong. Dowman made his Premier League debut in August against Leeds, where he won a penalty.
“If we were to check his age every day, we wouldn’t play him, it’s as simple as that,” said Arteta. “But based on his training performance, he deserves to be on the pitch. Finding that balance is key, particularly with the changes he is experiencing in his life, and ensuring he can handle that pressure. So far, he has managed well.”
“I remain calm about his situation because the plan we set for him in the initial months is being followed. Whether it is with the youth cup, the U23s, or with the first team, he is getting that experience. He also receives ample exposure during our training sessions,” Arteta added. “We must carefully manage his workload; he is still growing at 15, and we need to maintain control over various aspects to support his development effectively.”
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