Whilst Mikel Arteta’s team suffered a gut-wrenching late defeat away at Aston Villa, Max Dowman was impressing for Arsenal’s Under-21s once again.
Dowman has been on fire for Arsenal’s academy this campaign, netting seven goals in five appearances for the Under-21s and Under-19s.
The 15-year-old is being carefully managed at the Emirates Stadium right now, with Arsenal ready to hand Dowman a new scholarship at the end of the month.
But following the first team’s first defeat in 18 matches, Mikel Arteta must now make a big call over the talented midfielder.
Max Dowman must start for Arsenal against Club Brugge
Max Dowman got his name on the scoresheet during Arsenal Under-21s’ 3-0 win over Manchester United on Saturday, according to Jeorge Bird.
It means that Dowman has maintained his perfect goal-scoring record for Arsenal’s academy this season, scoring in every game which he has played.
Now, it’s time for Arteta to bring him back into the fold in the first team when they face Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday.
During the defeat at Villa Park, Arsenal players looked shattered, and it’s now time for the Gunners’ boss to rest some of his key players for their European clash.
How many changes should Mikel Arteta make to the starting XI against Club Brugge?
With Arsenal players looking leggy against Aston Villa, is it time for Arteta to ring the changes vs Brugge?
If you were Mikel Arteta, what Arsenal team are you fielding against Club Brugge? Let us know your selection in the comments…
Dowman hasn’t been part of the Arsenal squad since Tottenham, but at home to Brugge, he’s presented him with a great chance to get first-team minutes.
The North London club have made a perfect start to the competition, securing five wins from five, meaning they can afford to drop points.
Meanwhile, Brugge head to the Emirates in poor form, collecting just four points from five games, so Arteta should be more than confident of winning.
Therefore, there is a clear chance for him to ring the changes against the Belgian outfit and also to hand Dowman some minutes.
Gabriel Jesus returns for Arsenal Under-21s
Gabriel Jesus’ return to action continued for Arsenal’s Under-21s as the Brazilian featured in the win over Manchester United.
Arsenal are very excited about Jesus being back, and his return will certainly be a key boost following Viktor Gyokeres’ poor display against Villa.
How many goals do you think Gabriel Jesus would’ve scored for Arsenal if he hadn’t suffered his injuries?
Jesus is keen to remain at Arsenal until the end of his contract in 2027 and prove he still has plenty to offer at the top level.
There is a big incentive for him to perform well over the coming months, with the World Cup next summer and Brazil still searching for a striker.
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