Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has ignited fresh hope among Arsenal FC fans worldwide by issuing a bold challenge to two of his youngest prospects — Max Dowman and Marli Salmon — who made their surprise first-team debuts at just 15 years old in a pre-season clash against AC Milan.

Played in front of over 22,000 spectators at Singapore’s National Stadium, the friendly match saw Bukayo Saka score the only goal, but the biggest headlines were stolen by two schoolboys who were still doing homework just months ago.

“Very happy with all the kids,” said Arteta post-match. “They’re able to play at that level at 15 years old because of the environment and culture that’s within the team.”

This wasn’t just a throwaway compliment. It was a statement. A signal. A dare.

The Premier League season is around the corner, and Arteta made it clear: if the kids want in — they’ll have to fight for it.

“They’ll Have to Earn It”

Dowman and Salmon came on for the final 25 minutes, joining a lineup that ended the game with seven academy graduates. That statistic alone speaks volumes about Arteta’s commitment to youth development — but don’t mistake opportunity for handouts.

“They are getting used to the dynamics and the demands,” Arteta told reporters. “And especially raising the physical levels… they will have to earn it.”

The phrase “earn it” was no accident. It’s a mantra within the Arsenal Academy, which has previously nurtured stars like Jack Wilshere and Cesc Fàbregas. Now, Max Dowman — who turns 16 in December — and Marli Salmon might just be the next big exports from Hale End.

A Glimpse of the Future at 15

When Dowman took to the pitch, he immediately showed flashes of vision and poise well beyond his years. Marli Salmon, too, moved with confidence — unfazed by the presence of AC Milan veterans.

Fans watching online and in the stadium began buzzing. Could these be the next Saka or Smith Rowe?

Arteta thinks it’s possible — but again, there are caveats.

“Being in and around the team constantly… that gives them a good platform,” Arteta explained. “But they will have to impact the game physically. The standards are very high.”

The subtext? These boys aren’t ready just yet — but they’re on the doorstep.

Fitness Woes Shadow the Victory

Not all news was positive for the North London club.

Gabriel Magalhães, who had been recovering from a hamstring injury, suffered a minor setback in training and was left out of the squad alongside Jurriën Timber, who is still not fully fit.

Arteta explained, “Gabi had a little niggle. Because he has been out so long, we have to manage him carefully. We’ve played in Spain, the UK, now Singapore — all different conditions. We have to minimize risk.”

With Arsenal looking to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool this season, squad fitness will be crucial — especially in the congested run-up to Champions League fixtures.

What’s Next for the Gunners?

Despite winning the match 1-0, Arsenal ended the evening with a penalty shootout — a pre-planned event regardless of the full-time result — which they lost 6-5. It didn’t matter.

What mattered is that the youngest stars of tomorrow were introduced today.

Arsenal’s next test is a clash against Newcastle United in Singapore on Sunday. Whether Dowman or Salmon will feature again remains unknown — but after this performance, few would be surprised.

For Arteta, the takeaway is simple.

“When somebody makes you feel so confident straightaway… you can go and do it.”

The ball is now in the youngsters’ court — and Arsenal fans are watching closely.

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