Max Dowman could now be set for a prominent role at Arsenal after David Ornstein shared some disappointing news for Mikel Arteta on Tuesday morning.
The Hale End graduate has been involved in several matchday squads for the Gunners so far this season, and even managed appearances off the bench against Leeds and Liverpool.
Touted as one of the most exciting young footballers in the world, Dowman has been outstanding whenever he’s been granted an opportunity in Arsenal’s senior team.
The 15-year-old, who doesn’t turn 16 until December, is now likely set to receive several more opportunities in Arteta’s side.
David Ornstein shares Noni Madueke injury update
Noni Madueke was forced off the pitch at half-time of Arsenal’s game against Manchester City on Sunday.
The winger reportedly felt pain in his knee early in the match, but opted to continue playing, before Bukayo Saka took his place at the break.
Initial fears that Madueke may have torn his ACL have now been dismissed, with Ornstein providing a concrete update on the England international’s injury status on Tuesday.
The journalist revealed via the Athletic that Madueke will be sidelined for around two months, meaning a late-November return is on the cards.
The 23-year-old joins Arsenal’s growing injury list for this season, with the likes of Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus all currently suffering with fitness issues.
Madueke signed from Chelsea for £52 million over the summer and had got off to a promising start in North London, and thus Arteta will be extremely frustrated by this setback.
Max Dowman will likely now get more of a look in for Arsenal
While the loss of Madueke is a huge blow for Arsenal, it could directly open a pathway for Dowman to get more minutes.
Ethan Nwaneri filled in for Saka on the right-hand side of the Gunners’ attack last season whilst the team’s talisman was injured.
However, the 18-year-old is clearly seen as Odegaard’s understudy, while the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are clearly left-sided players.
Meanwhile, Dowman came on at right-wing in all of his pre-season appearances, as well as his two cameo displays this term.
It’s clear that the starlet is viewed as the third choice in this position in Arteta’s squad, meaning he’ll likely be granted minutes in cup competitions and late in games whilst Madueke is out.
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