Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has warned 16-year-old forward Max Dowman to control his emotions and improve his discipline following his dismissal in the club’s Carabao Cup defeat to Fleetwood Town.

Dowman was sent off for violent conduct after appearing to kick out at Harrison Neal following a strong challenge, according to Sky Sports.

Arsenal eventually exited the competition on penalties, with the teenager’s red card becoming a talking point after the match.

Arteta was seen speaking to Dowman as he headed towards the tunnel following his dismissal. However, former Arsenal forward and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson criticised the manager’s reaction, arguing that he should have offered the youngster comfort rather than confronting him in the heat of the moment.

Arteta insists young players must meet expectations

Defending his response, Arteta said young footballers must understand the demands of professional football and take responsibility for their conduct.

“What do you expect? That’s the level and that’s the reaction. Whether it’s right or wrong, that’s the reaction. And the reaction when I don’t win, I’m ** off, big time.

“This is the environment and the reality. We are not in Disneyland, we are in the Premier League. We look after him so much, but we are also demanding, as he needs to earn the right to play. Otherwise, what are the rest of the boys going to tell me?”

The Arsenal manager explained that his reaction was influenced by frustration and concern about the possible consequences Dowman could face.

He also disclosed that the player’s discipline had been discussed before the Fleetwood match following a similar incident involving England earlier in the month.

Manager urges protection and discipline

Arteta acknowledged that Dowman’s style of play and ability to attract opponents could expose him to physical challenges, but insisted that the club must balance protecting him with demanding accountability.

“It will continue to happen with the way he plays and the way he attracts opponents,” Arteta said.

“We have to be protective of him, as he is 16, but also very straight with him about what to expect from him towards the team and the club.”

Arteta further revealed that he had spoken with Dowman the previous day and insisted that the incident had not created any lasting disagreement between them.

“There are no issues at all,” he said.

“We’ve all made these mistakes. We know how much you can get punished and what happens next. It’s not the first time, so we need to put an end to it very quickly.”

The manager maintained that Dowman would continue to receive support from the club but must learn from the incident and avoid further disciplinary problems.