‘We are not in Disneyland’: Arteta defends tough response to 16-year-old Dowman’s red card

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended his stern response to 16-year-old midfielder Max Dowman after the teenager was sent off in the Gunners' shocking 5-3 penalty loss to Fleetwood in the League Cup. The young star received a red card five minutes before the end of normal time, sparking criticism from some pundits who felt Arteta should have been more understanding of Dowman's age.

However, Arteta remained unapologetic, emphasizing that the team must face reality and not be in "Disneyland." He explained that while he values the well-being of Dowman, who has been carefully nurtured by Arsenal since his debut at 15, the young midfielder needs to earn his place on the field like everyone else. Arteta also noted that Dowman's style of play attracts opponents, which is why the player needs to be both protected and held accountable.

The manager admitted that he was disappointed with the appeal's failure and the reckless tackles Dowman faced, but he insisted he had no issues with the young midfielder.