Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Max Dowman to learn from his recent disciplinary setback, insisting the teenager remains in a positive frame of mind ahead of Wednesday's Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague.

According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, Arteta believes the 16-year-old can turn his Fleetwood Town red card into an important learning experience as Arsenal prepare for their European fixture.

Dowman was sent off during Arsenal's Carabao Cup encounter against Fleetwood, resulting in a three-match domestic suspension for violent conduct. The punishment means he will be unavailable for Premier League action until late November.

However, the suspension does not affect his availability for European competitions, leaving Arteta with the option of giving him another opportunity against Slavia Prague.

The fixture carries particular significance for Dowman, who made Champions League history at the same stadium exactly one year ago.

The youngster became the competition's youngest-ever player when he came off the bench against Slavia Prague at the age of 15 years and 308 days. Arsenal won that encounter 3-0, with Mikel Merino scoring twice.

Arteta has now revealed that he has spoken directly with Dowman about his dismissal and believes the youngster is responding positively.

"That's a chapter that is gone. It's a moment of learning from all of us, and we move on," the Arsenal manager said.

He also highlighted the teenager's attitude during training, describing him as "super positive" despite the disappointment.

Arteta explained that he had been honest with Dowman about his public comments following the Fleetwood incident, stressing the importance of maintaining an open relationship with his players.

The Arsenal manager also believes the winger must learn to control his emotions because opponents will regularly attempt to provoke him during matches.

Dowman could achieve another remarkable milestone against Slavia Prague. If he scores, he would become the youngest goalscorer in Champions League history, surpassing Ansu Fati's record of 17 years and 40 days.

With Arsenal looking to strengthen their position in the competition, Arteta's backing could provide Dowman with another opportunity to demonstrate his potential on the European stage.