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Saliba Returns and Dowman Shines as Arsenal U21s Thrash Aston Villa 5-2

Arsenal supporters had two very good reasons to celebrate this afternoon as William Saliba made his return to competitive action and Max Dowman produced an outstanding performance in the Under-21s’ 5-2 victory over Aston Villa at Meadow Park. It was…

Justarsenal

Published: Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 9:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Arsenal U21s secured a 5-2 victory over Aston Villa featuring William Saliba's return and Max Dowman's standout performance.
William Saliba played a planned 45 minutes in central defense following months sidelined with a back injury.
Sixteen-year-old Max Dowman played the full match, recording a goal, an assist, and hitting the post.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Arsenal Under-21s defeated Aston Villa 5-2 at Meadow Park to claim their first Premier League 2 victory of the season. First-team defender William Saliba made his return from a back injury by playing 45 planned minutes, while 16-year-old Max Dowman impressed across the full 90 minutes by scoring once and adding an assist.

Cole Brannigan scored early for Aston Villa before Arsenal responded with goals from Maalik Hashi, an Andre Harriman-Annous brace, Dowman, and substitute Evan Mooney, while Jack McGrath added a second for Villa. Manager Mikel Arteta had planned Saliba's youth appearance ahead of the senior side's upcoming fixtures following the international break.

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Saliba Returns and Dowman Shines as Arsenal U21s Thrash Aston Villa 5-2

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