Arteta's Bold Prediction: Arsenal Star's Destiny Revealed Amid Real Madrid Transfer Buzz

Mikel Arteta shows minimal worry regarding Real Madrid or other competing clubs attempting to recruit 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman, even though the youngster hasn't secured a professional contract with Arsenal yet.

In England, footballers can only commit to professional agreements upon reaching 17 years of age, leaving clubs exposed to losing academy prospects in younger categories. Real Madrid reportedly dispatched scouts to observe Dowman and were thoroughly impressed by his performances.

However, Dowman remains a devoted Arsenal supporter from a household of dedicated fans and seems determined to remain with the North London club, despite potentially more attractive financial offers from other teams. Recent reports suggest he's in talks with the club regarding his scholarship status, with negotiations underway for an initial professional deal that can be officially pre-agreed when he reaches 16.

Arteta has now reinforced the belief that Dowman, who earned his senior debut in August becoming the club's second youngest player ever after Ethan Nwaneri, will pledge his long-term future to Arsenal.

"I don't worry about [losing Dowman] because everything I'm hearing from the player and his family has been extremely encouraging," Arteta informed journalists. "[Remaining long-term] is what we all desire and I believe what he wants too. Beyond that it's more for [sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the organization.

"But my impression is that he genuinely enjoys being here. He's a passionate Arsenal fan and his family are very pleased with how things are progressing around him as well. Hopefully he'll remain with us for many years to come."

Arteta: Age No Barrier to Playing Dowman

Arteta demonstrated through his utilization of Nwaneri, who made his debut in 2022, that he's prepared to provide very young talents opportunities at senior level if he considers them capable enough. The situation has been identical with Dowman, whose age alone isn't adequate justification to restrict his progress.

"If we examined his birth certificate daily we would never field him, it's that straightforward," Arteta clarified. "So it's about finding equilibrium, comprehension, particularly regarding workload, the changes occurring in his life, and ensuring he can handle that pressure. Thus far, he has managed exceptionally well."

Dowman has featured in three senior matches accumulating 54 minutes for Arsenal this campaign and opportunities may continue arising due to more experienced players being sidelined through injury.

"In the attacking positions, that's where we face greater challenges," Arteta acknowledged before confronting Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup this week. "Gabriel Jesus unavailable, Kai [Havertz] unavailable, [Gabriel] Martinelli and [Noni] Madueke unavailable. We must be more cautious as our options are limited.

"[Dowman] will receive playing time with us, certainly, and when opportunities arise he must seize them."