Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Max Dowman is ready to start against Manchester City if needed, following the news that Bukayo Saka will miss the upcoming match. Saka has been out of action since the Carabao Cup final last month and will not be available for the crucial clash at the Etihad Stadium.
Meanwhile, Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will recover from a knee injury in time for the game, but he has no hesitation in using 16-year-old Dowman, who has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season. Dowman became the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March, and Arteta believes he will deliver if given the chance. "He will be ready, I am sure," Arteta said. "You throw him into any context, this kid, and you know what he will be delivering." The absence of Saka is a significant blow for Arsenal, who will be looking to reopen their nine-point lead over Manchester City.
Arteta has rejected suggestions that his team will play for a draw, insisting that they will prepare to win. "It is certainly the most important game, as it is the next one," he said. "We have earned the right to be in this position, to be challenging.
With the possibility to win on Sunday, arguably against the best team and manager that this league has ever seen." Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also acknowledged the significance of the match, stating that his team's title bid will be over if they lose. "Obviously, if we lose it's over," Guardiola said. "But there are still games to play. The reality is there are seven games left for us in the Premier League and that is the decisive moment." The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to gain a crucial advantage in the title race.