Mikel Arteta challenges young Arsenal crop to push for first-team spots

Mikel Arteta has laid down the gauntlet to Arsenal’s young talents, encouraging them to prove they deserve a place in the senior squad this season.

His comments came after teenage prospects Max Dowman and Marli Salmon stood out during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore.

The Gunners claimed victory in front of 22,813 fans at the National Stadium, courtesy of a first-half goal from Bukayo Saka. But it was the involvement of two 15-year-olds that sparked the biggest talking points post-match.

Dowman and Salmon were introduced for the final 25 minutes, marking their senior debuts. By full-time, seven academy products were on the pitch, highlighting the club’s continued focus on youth development.

“Very happy with all the kids,” said Arteta following the match. “I think they are able to play at that level at 15 years old in my opinion because of the environment and culture that is within the team.

“When somebody makes you feel so comfortable and so confident straightaway you can go and do it. At least it gives you the best chance and then you have to have the qualities this kid has to deliver against opposition like this.”

When asked if Dowman, who turns 16 in December, could be involved regularly this season, Arteta remained measured in his response.

“We don’t know with all the young kids. At the end they are in and around the team constantly and they getting used to the dynamics and the demands.

“And especially raising the physical levels because the demands they need to perform and impact at the level is really high physical standards. They are getting there and that gives them a good platform and they will have to earn it.”

Gabriel and Timber Absences Explained

The game also offered updates on the fitness of key first-team players. Both Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber were missing from the squad, and Arteta provided insight into their situations.

“With Jurrien he is still not there. He is still not fully training yet with us,” said the Arsenal boss.

As for Gabriel, who has been managing a hamstring issue: “Gabi had a little niggle the other day in training. Because the fact that he has been out so long as well we have to manage him.

“We have been in Spain, different pitch, different conditions, go to the UK, different ones, come here, again a lot of changes. We have to minimise the risk with him.”

Despite winning the match in normal time, Arsenal then participated in a pre-arranged penalty shootout, which they narrowly lost 6-5.

Next up for Arteta’s side is a clash with Premier League rivals Newcastle, also taking place in Singapore, as preparations for the new season continue.

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