Arteta shows tough love on Dowman after red - 'This isn't Disneyland'

Arteta defended his reaction to Dowman's red card at Fleetwood, saying the teenager must learn to control his emotions at the highest level.

Max Dowman was sent off for violent conduct in Arsenal's Carabao Cup penalty shootout defeat to League Two side Fleetwood Town, kicking out at defender Harrison Neal after a strong challenge. Arsenal appealed the red card but the decision was upheld, meaning the 16-year-old will miss the upcoming clash with Liverpool.

Arteta was visibly frustrated as Dowman headed down the tunnel, prompting criticism from Sky Sports' Paul Merson, who felt the manager should have been more supportive. Arteta defended his approach, explaining the context of their relationship and pre-match discussion. "This is the environment and the reality. We are not in Disneyland, we are in the Premier League," Arteta said. "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?"