Max Dowman, a 16-year-old Arsenal player, started in Arsenal's 2-1 win over Mansfield in the FA Cup, marking his return after more than three months out with an ankle injury. According to major media reports, Dowman was Arsenal's best player in the first half, leading in duels won, dribbles attempted, and touches in the opposition box. He went close to scoring early in the second half with a shot that was tipped behind.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was impressed with how Dowman and fellow 16-year-old Marli Salmon dealt with the occasion. ' He added, 'Obviously, two 16-year-olds starting in the FA Cup. That tells us a lot about them, their personality and the quality that they have.
Very proud of him, very proud as well of Marli.
' Arteta was particularly impressed with how Dowman coped with a tough playing surface. Arsenal started with an unusual back-three shape against Mansfield, but Arteta switched away from this system before half-time after Leandro Trossard went off injured. Arteta confirmed the change in shape was due to the desire to rest key defenders and limited replacement options, not to try something new.
Obviously, two 16-year-olds starting in the FA Cup. That tells us a lot about them, their personality and the quality that they have. And Max, I think he was exceptional.