Arteta Confident in Dowman's Readiness to Face Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence in Max Dowman's ability to start against Manchester City, following the confirmation that Bukayo Saka will be unavailable due to injury. Saka has not played since the Carabao Cup final last month and will not feature in the upcoming match against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Arsenal's lead over Manchester City has been reduced to six points after their recent loss to Bournemouth, and they face their title rivals with an added sense of urgency. Arteta hopes to have Noni Madueke available despite the winger's apparent knee injury but is prepared to utilize 16-year-old Dowman if needed. Dowman has made 11 senior appearances this season and became the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March. Arteta stated, 'He will be ready, I am sure. You throw him into any context, this kid, and you know what he will be delivering.' The manager's comments come as Arsenal prepares to face Manchester City in a crucial match that could significantly impact the title race. The continued absence of Saka is a significant blow, and Arteta rejected suggestions that Arsenal could play for a draw, insisting that he is preparing his team to win. Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged that his team's title bid will be over if they lose to Arsenal, but he remains focused on the task at hand. Guardiola said, 'Obviously, if we lose it's over. But there are still games to play.' The match between Arsenal and Manchester City is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to claim a vital win.