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. Arteta believes Dowman is 'ready' to take on the challenge, having impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season. The 16-year-old became the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March.
Arteta said, 'You throw him into any context, this kid, and you know what he will be delivering.' Dowman may be called upon to replace the injured Saka, who has not featured since the Carabao Cup final last month. Noni Madueke is also a doubt after suffering a knee injury in the Champions League quarter-final against Sporting, but Arteta is hopeful he will be available. The Arsenal manager rejected suggestions that his team may play for a draw at the Etihad Stadium, insisting they will prepare to win and reopen their nine-point lead.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola acknowledged that Manchester City's title bid will be over if they lose to Arsenal, but believes there are still plenty of twists and turns to come in the season.