Mikel Arteta confident Max Dowman will commit future to Arsenal | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his confidence that teenage sensation Max Dowman will remain at the club long term, describing the 15-year-old winger as a “special talent” who embodies the spirit of Arsenal’s future.

Dowman, who recently agreed to scholarship terms set to begin next season, is expected to feature again for the senior side in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Brighton. The youngster was notably omitted from the under-21 squad at the weekend, fuelling speculation of another first-team opportunity following his impressive cameo appearances earlier this season against Leeds, Liverpool, and Port Vale.

Arteta praised Dowman’s maturity and ability, insisting that age should not limit his involvement. “If we looked at his passport every day, we’d never play him,” the Spaniard said, speaking to media. “But when you see what he does in training, you have to play him, otherwise you’re blind. It’s about managing his development, the load, and all the changes happening in his life.”

The Arsenal boss also emphasised that both player and club are aligned on Dowman’s future. “He loves it here, he’s a huge Arsenal supporter, and his family are very happy with how things are progressing,” Arteta added. “Hopefully, he’ll be with us for many years.”

Dowman is eligible to sign his first professional contract when he turns 17, and Arsenal are keen to secure his commitment early amid growing interest across Europe.

GFN | Finn Entwistle