Cesc Fabregas has sent Arsenal a blunt warning over Max Dowman after watching the teenager feature in Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw against Como at the Emirates.
Dowman was handed another opportunity by Mikel Arteta in Arsenal’s final pre-season friendly, starting alongside fellow Hale End youngster Marli Salmon.
The 16-year-old played the opening 45 minutes before £75million signing Bruno Guimaraes replaced him at half-time as Arteta continued to manage his squad ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield against Manchester City.
Fabregas was impressed by both youngsters but believes Arsenal must continue giving them meaningful opportunities.
Cesc Fabregas on Salmon & Dowman making an impact: “It’s amazing. Hale End does an amazing job, there is a lot of talent. I had a chance to say well done to them, but keep going, keep pushing yourself. If Arsenal want to give us some players, we can take them!” 🤣❤️ pic.twitter.com/nk3hqO6zp6
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) August 12, 2026
Cesc Fabregas sends Max Dowman Arsenal warning
Speaking after the game, the Como manager praised the work being done at Hale End before issuing a warning about how easily talented youngsters can lose momentum.
Fabregas told Hayters that if young players are not trusted and given opportunities, their talent can become “lost in the process”.
It is a particularly interesting message when applied to Dowman.
Arsenal’s midfield and attacking options have become increasingly crowded this summer, with Guimaraes joining a squad already containing Martin Odegaard, Eberechi Eze, Ethan Nwaneri, Declan Rice and several other established internationals.
Dowman’s pathway therefore remains challenging despite his enormous potential.
Fabregas knows that situation well. He established himself in Arsenal’s first team as a teenager and believes Dowman will need patience as he competes against some of the best players in the world.
ReadArsenal’s player ratings from the Como draw highlighted another valuable senior appearance for Dowman before his half-time withdrawal.
Fabregas also joked that Como would happily take some of Arsenal’s youngsters if opportunities became difficult to find in north London.
There is no suggestion Arsenal currently intend to send Dowman elsewhere, but Fabregas’ message is clear.
Developing talent at Hale End is only the first part of the job. Arteta must now find enough senior minutes to ensure one of Arsenal’s brightest prospects continues progressing.
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