Dowman Set to Face Manchester City as Saka Remains Sidelined

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Max Dowman is ready to start against Manchester City on Sunday, following the news that Bukayo Saka will not be available due to injury. Despite Saka's continued absence, Arteta remains hopeful that Noni Madueke will be fit to play after suffering a knee injury in the midweek match against Sporting. Dowman, who has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season and became the youngest Premier League scorer in history, may be given the opportunity to start against City. Arteta expressed his confidence in the 16-year-old, stating that he will be ready to deliver if called upon. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that a loss to Arsenal would effectively end Manchester City's title bid, but remains focused on the task at hand, emphasizing the importance of approaching the game as just another football match. The highly anticipated clash between the top two teams is set to be a decisive moment in the Premier League season, with Arsenal seeking their first top-flight crown since the 2003-04 season.