Arsenal travel to Vale Park on Wednesday evening in the Carabao Cup, with Mikel Arteta ready to rotate his squad. All eyes will be on 15-year-old Max Dowman, who is expected to start and in doing so could become the youngest ever player to feature from the outset for Arsenal.

Dowman is on the verge of eclipsing the record set by goalkeeper Jack Porter last season. Porter made his debut at 16 years and 72 days old, starting in the Carabao Cup third-round victory over Bolton. For Dowman, who has already made two appearances off the bench this campaign, it marks another rapid step in his development. With Noni Madueke sidelined, the teenager looks set to seize his chance.

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New faces ready to feature

One of the more intriguing selections could see Kepa Arrizabalaga finally make his Arsenal debut following his summer move from Chelsea. “A lot of players fully deserve minutes, Kepa, for sure, is one of them,” said Arteta, hinting strongly at changes.

Defensive adjustments are also expected. Myles Lewis-Skelly is pushing for a start at left-back, while Ben White and Cristhian Mosquera are set to come into the back line. Piero Hincapie remains absent with a groin problem, meaning either Gabriel or William Saliba will likely anchor the defence.

Midfield balance under spotlight

Summer signing Christian Norgaard is in line for his first full start at the base of midfield. Alongside him, Ethan Nwaneri could be trusted to bring creativity, possibly paired with Mikel Merino. The blend of experience and youth is likely to be closely monitored, especially with Martin Odegaard still out injured with a shoulder issue.

Attacking reshuffle expected

Gabriel Martinelli is expected to start after his brace from the bench last week, while Leandro Trossard could deputise through the middle if Viktor Gyokeres, who has started every game this season, is rested. Injuries continue to affect the forward line with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both sidelined through knee problems.

Arsenal supporters will welcome the chance to see how Arteta’s blend of academy talent and summer signings cope against League One opposition. Port Vale will provide a competitive stage for Dowman and company, but the focus will remain firmly on the teenager’s historic night.

Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3): Kepa, White, Mosquera, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri, Norgaard, Merino, Dowman, Trossard, Martinelli.

Injured: Havertz (knee), Hincapie (groin), Jesus (knee), Madueke (knee), Odegaard (shoulder).

Kick-off: 8.00pm BST, Wednesday 24 September 2025.