Arsenal have confirmed they will appeal the straight red card shown to teenager Max Dowman during Tuesday's Carabao Cup tie against Fleetwood. The 16-year-old midfielder was sent off in the 85th minute of the contest following an altercation with Fleetwood's Harrison Neal.
Dowman, who was making his second start of the season, reacted to a heavy challenge from Neal late in the second half. While the Arsenal youngster did not execute a full kick out, his foot made contact with the Fleetwood player, leading to his dismissal for violent conduct. The game ended in a 1-1 draw before League Two side Fleetwood pulled off an upset, eliminating the Premier League champions 5-3 on penalties.
The incident represents Dowman's second dismissal this month, having previously seen red while playing for England's Under-19 squad. As the young winger walked off the pitch, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta directed a scathing look and what appeared to be an angry remark toward him. Speaking after the final whistle, Arteta reflected on the need for discipline, stating: "When we prepared the context of the match, we were very clear on the things to respect, the things that emotionally we have to dominate. It was very clear."
Dowman's dismissal for violent conduct currently carries a three-match suspension under the rules of the game. A confirmed ban would further strain Arsenal's squad depth out wide, with the Gunners already light on options on the wing due to ongoing injuries to Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis, and Noni Madueke.