Arsenal to Appeal Max Dowman’s Red Card After Shock Carabao Cup Exit

Posted : 28 October 2026

Arsenal are preparing to appeal the dismissal of teenage midfielder Max Dowman following their shock Carabao Cup defeat against Fleetwood Town. The 16-year-old received a straight red card during Tuesday’s encounter after an incident involving Fleetwood midfielder Harrison Neal.

Dowman was sent off in the 85th minute after reacting to a heavy challenge from Neal. Although the teenager did not appear to make a full kicking motion, his foot made contact with his opponent, prompting the referee to dismiss him for violent conduct.

The dismissal could result in a three-match suspension if the appeal is unsuccessful. Arsenal have decided to challenge the decision, with the Football Association expected to consider the case after receiving the club's submission.

The incident overshadowed an already disappointing evening for Mikel Arteta's side, who were eliminated from the competition after losing 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at Fleetwood's Highbury Stadium.

Fleetwood, who compete in League Two, took the lead through Aaron Loupalo-Bi before Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres restored parity in the second half. Despite creating further opportunities, the Premier League side could not find a winning goal before the match went to a shootout.

Arsenal's hopes of progressing were further complicated by Dowman's dismissal, which left them with 10 players during the closing stages. Fleetwood subsequently held their nerve from the penalty spot to complete one of the competition's biggest upsets.

Dowman's sending-off also attracted attention because of the young midfielder's growing reputation. The dismissal was his second red card of the month, having previously been sent off while playing for England's Under-19 side.

Arteta appeared visibly unhappy as Dowman left the pitch, and the Arsenal manager later explained that emotional discipline had been discussed with the players before the match. He stressed the importance of controlling reactions in difficult situations.

The Arsenal manager also acknowledged that his team had created enough opportunities to win the contest but failed to make the most of them. He congratulated Fleetwood on their progression while expressing disappointment at his side's inability to turn their dominance into goals.

The appeal could prove important for Arsenal as they navigate a demanding run of fixtures. The club are already dealing with injuries to several attacking players, including Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke, leaving limited options in wide areas.

If the suspension stands, Dowman could miss three matches, depending on the applicable disciplinary decision and competition rules. Arsenal will hope their appeal succeeds as they seek to avoid losing another option during a crucial stage of the season.

Arsenal to Appeal Max Dowman’s Red Card After Shock Carabao Cup Exit

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