Dowman Set to Face Manchester City as Saka Remains Sidelined

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Max Dowman is ready to start against Manchester City if needed, following the continued absence of Bukayo Saka due to injury. Saka has not played since the Carabao Cup final last month and will miss the crucial clash with City at the Etihad Stadium. Arsenal's lead over City was reduced to six points after their defeat to Bournemouth last weekend, and they face their title rivals having played a game more. Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will be available despite suffering a knee injury in the meeting with Sporting, but he is prepared to use 16-year-old Dowman if necessary. Dowman has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season, becoming the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March. Arteta expressed his confidence in Dowman, saying, 'He will be ready, I am sure. You throw him into any context, this kid, and you know what he will be delivering.' The continued absence of Saka is a significant blow for Arsenal, who are also dealing with injuries to captain Martin Odegaard and the fit-again Kai Havertz. Arteta rejected suggestions that Arsenal could play for a draw, insisting that he is preparing his team 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 he expects a tough challenge from his opponents. Guardiola added that while an Arsenal win would end City's title challenge, there could still be plenty of twists and turns ahead with half a dozen games left to play.