Arsenal Add Gabriel Jesus to Champions League Squad After Max Dowman Injury

Gabriel Jesus Champions League return boosts Arsenal after Max Dowman’s injury setback.

Arsenal has made a key European change as Gabriel Jesus’ Champions League return is confirmed, with the Brazilian forward replacing injured teenager Max Dowman on the 2025-26 UEFA A List. The club confirmed the update shortly after Dowman suffered an ankle injury during an Under-21 match.

Arsenal announced that Jesus “has replaced Max Dowman on our UEFA A list with immediate effect,” which makes him eligible for the upcoming Champions League fixture away to Club Brugge.

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Dowman’s Injury Blow

Dowman, just 15 years old, picked up an ankle injury while playing for the Under-21s. He is expected to be out of European action for at least 60 days, delaying his Champions League involvement until February 2026.

Jesus, who has been sidelined since January with a major knee injury, has recently returned to full training and has been named on the bench in recent Premier League games. His improving fitness made him the natural replacement once Dowman was ruled out.

Jesus gives Arsenal extra firepower during a demanding run across domestic and European competitions. His experience could become vital as the league phase approaches its conclusion.

Dowman had made headlines earlier in the season when he became Arsenal’s youngest Champions League player. His temporary removal means his next opportunity will come no earlier than February, placing his rapid rise momentarily on hold.

If Arsenal progress deep into the competition, having Jesus available could be a significant advantage. His Champions League pedigree gives Mikel Arteta an additional option ahead of the knockout rounds.

Background: From Early Omission to Late Inclusion

When Arsenal submitted their European squad in September, Jesus was omitted due to his recovery timeline, while Dowman was surprisingly included. The teenager’s selection had been viewed as an exciting risk, offering him senior European minutes. Now, with Dowman unavailable, the club have reversed course and reinstated Jesus into the 25-man European squad.

Arsenal fans will now wait to see whether Jesus is ready for Champions League minutes. His involvement could ease the workload on the frontline. For Dowman, the focus shifts to recovery and preparing for a potential return in the winter registration window.

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