Mikel Arteta has described Max Dowman’s latest Arsenal performance as “unbelievable” after the teenage sensation struck twice in a thrilling 4-2 Carabao Cup victory over Ipswich Town.
The 16-year-old stole the spotlight at Portman Road with another eye-catching display, underlining why Arsenal are so excited about his emergence.
Dowman needed less than 10 minutes to make his mark, finding the net to become Arsenal’s second-youngest scorer in Carabao Cup history.
He was not finished.
The teenager struck again just 90 seconds after the restart, completing a memorable night with his second goal and helping Arsenal maintain control of a six-goal contest.
Arteta was full of praise for Dowman after the final whistle, highlighting the youngster’s ability to combine effectively with his teammates and influence matches despite his age.
“He was unbelievable again; some of the actions and connections that he can give us on the pitch are just a joy to watch.
“He was really efficient; he’s getting more and more active in action; he can sustain for longer periods, and we know the talent that we have.”
Dowman was not the only Arsenal teenager to impress at Portman Road.
Marli Salmon also started the match and produced a composed performance across the full 90 minutes as Arsenal survived a demanding test against Ipswich.
Arteta was equally impressed with the 17-year-old, particularly given the physical challenge presented by the hosts.
“Really good as well, and it was a really tough match with some of the physicality that they have, and the way they isolate you, and you have to handle. Again, another 17-year-old doing something incredible, so yeah, really proud of him.”
The victory also extended Arsenal’s demanding spell on the road.
The Ipswich trip was their third consecutive away fixture, following matches in Napoli and Sunderland, and another difficult journey awaits this weekend when Arteta’s side travel to face Brighton at the AMEX Stadium.
Despite the relentless schedule, the Arsenal boss was pleased with the attitude shown by his players.
“The last week has been tough in Napoli, in Sunderland then coming here again. But again look at the attitude of the players, the desire they showed, and that’s what we have to do – go again.”
Arsenal’s supporters have also played their part throughout the demanding run.
Large numbers of travelling fans made the trip to Portman Road, creating an atmosphere that Arteta believes helped push his players through another important cup test.
“Unbelievable again, thank you so much everybody for travelling, creating an incredible atmosphere, supporting and making the players feel that this is an important competition that we want to go through and try to win it.”
For Arsenal, the 4-2 victory was about more than simply reaching the next stage of the Carabao Cup.
Dowman’s brace provided another glimpse of the teenager’s potential, while Salmon showed composure beyond his years in a physically demanding encounter.
Arteta will now turn his attention to Brighton, with Arsenal facing another test of their squad depth, mentality and energy.
But after another night where Arsenal’s youngsters stepped up under pressure, the manager has every reason to be encouraged by what he is seeing.
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