Mikel Arteta has discussed his stern reaction to Max Dowman receiving a red card against Fleetwood. Arsenal exited the Carabao Cup against the League Two side in a major upset. With the score tied at 1-1, 16-year-old Dowman received a straight red card for lashing out at Fleetwood defender Harrison Neal following a hard tackle.
Arteta stared down the winger as he walked toward the tunnel and offered sharp words from the sidelines. Lipreader Nicola Hickling stated that the manager told the player to get into the changing room. When questioned directly, Arteta kept his response brief, stating it was something discussed prior to the match.
Regarding the red card decision itself, Arteta stated he had not seen it clearly on camera and accepted the referee's verdict. Sky Sports pundits criticized Arteta for how he treated the teenager. Jobi McAnuff stated he disliked the reaction, while Paul Merson argued that Arteta would not treat an older player the same way and should have supported the youngster.
