Dowman Prepared 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 ruling out of Bukayo Saka due to injury. Saka has been absent since the Carabao Cup final last month and will not be available for the crucial match at the Etihad Stadium. Meanwhile, Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will be fit to play despite suffering a knee injury in the recent meeting with Sporting. Dowman, who became the youngest Premier League scorer with his goal against Everton in March, has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season. Arteta expressed his confidence in the 16-year-old, 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 Arsenal manager also rejected suggestions that the team might play for a draw, stating that they will prepare to win and reopen their nine-point lead. On the other hand, Pep Guardiola acknowledged that Manchester City's title bid will be over if they lose to Arsenal, but emphasized that there are still many games left to play. Guardiola also praised Arsenal, saying, "Maybe they are not at their best, but they are the only English team in the Champions League and they have been the best so far. We want to challenge them." The highly anticipated match between the top two teams in the Premier League is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams determined to come out on top.