Arteta explains reaction to Dowman red card amid criticism

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed his reaction to 16-year-old Max Dowman following the teenager's red card in a Carabao Cup defeat to Fleetwood Town. Dowman was sent off for violent conduct after clashing with Fleetwood defender Harrison Neal during the match, which finished 1-1 before Arsenal lost 4-3 on penalties. Arteta spoke to the youngster as he walked down the tunnel, later stating that his comments referred to pre-match discussions regarding emotional control.

Arteta's conduct drew criticism from Sky Sports pundits Paul Merson and Jobi McAnuff, who suggested the manager should have supported the teenager rather than confronting him. Despite the loss to the League Two side, Arteta commended Fleetwood and stated he had no complaints about his players' effort, instead pointing to wasted scoring opportunities as the reason for Arsenal's elimination.