Arsenal finds themselves in a very frustrating situation. Their current injury crisis has nearly every defender in their defensive corps. They need someone like Max Dowman in their defense who brings the young fire. Since the beginning of the 2024/25 season, Arsenal has experienced over 100 injuries. This is more than any other club in the Premier League.
The “Dowman” Blueprint for Success
One way out of this difficult situation could be to bring in highly rated centre back prospects from the academy. This is similar to how Arsenal have done with Max Dowman in the Premier League. The 15-year-old attacking midfielder has had tremendous success during this season. He is now the youngest player ever to start a Premier League match. Moreover, he is the youngest player ever to play in the Champions League. The way that Mikel Arteta gave a lot of confidence in his young players, like Dowman, shows how he believes in the abilities of young players, especially those who are exceptional. Who will be the young players whom Arteta trusts to fill the gap left by his younger defenders?
Introducing Marli Salmon: Hale End’s “Crown Jewel”
That player is 16-year-old centre-back Marli Salmon, hailed by some as the “Dowman of centre-backs”. Highly rated within the club, Salmon is described as possessing “freak physical attributes” and being “different gravy on the ball”. He has already trained with the first team. He also featured on the pre-season tour, and made a Champions League appearance, becoming the competition’s sixth-youngest player.
A Calculated Gamble for Arteta
All of Arsenal’s defenders suffering from injuries. They need rest to prevent additional injuries, the possibility of playing Salmon is certainly a big gamble. The potential benefit of Salmon playing at centre back during a time when Arsenal has so many matches on their schedule could mean an opportunity for him to shine. This is certainly not the long-term answer for Arsenal. However, the addition of Marli Salmon to the team may be just the short-term solution that Arteta needs to get through a defensive crisis.
