Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is considering the inclusion of 16-year-old midfielder Max Dowman in the team for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Dowman has featured prominently throughout pre-season but has yet to make a senior appearance this season, with Arteta opting instead to start established players Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke on the right wing during competitive fixtures.

The Gunners have maintained a perfect record so far this season, reducing pressure on Arteta’s selection decisions. However, there is growing anticipation among fans for Dowman to be given more playing time, particularly in cup competitions where squad rotation is common. The Carabao Cup tie is viewed as an opportunity for young talents like Dowman to gain valuable first-team experience.

When asked about Dowman’s limited minutes this season, Arteta acknowledged the challenge of squad selection due to numerical restrictions and emphasized the youngster’s potential. “He will have his chance, he will have his minutes, and he will have to earn them, like anybody else. We know the talent that we have and we need to help him and find a way to make sure that he continues to develop and help the team,” the manager said.

Arsenal reached the final of last season’s Carabao Cup but were defeated 2-0 by Manchester City in a match described as disappointing by supporters. Questions have emerged regarding the club’s prioritization of the competition amid ambitions to compete for more prestigious trophies. Nonetheless, the cup remains a platform for squad rotation and player development, which may benefit rising prospects such as Dowman.