Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Max Dowman is ready to start against Manchester City if needed, following the ruling out of Bukayo Saka due to injury. Saka has not played since the Carabao Cup final last month, and Arteta has stated that he will not be available for the upcoming match against City at the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal's lead over Manchester City has been reduced to six points after their recent defeat to Bournemouth. Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will be available despite suffering a knee injury, but is prepared to use 16-year-old Dowman if necessary. 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 expressed confidence in Dowman's abilities, 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 match against Manchester City is crucial for Arsenal, with Pep Guardiola describing it as a 'final'. Guardiola has stated that if City loses, their title bid will be over, but there are still several games left to play. The Spanish manager also praised Arsenal, saying they have been the best team in the Premier League so far and that he enjoys watching them play.
Arsenal is seeking their first top-flight crown since the 2003-04 season and will be looking to reopen their nine-point lead over City.