Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence in Max Dowman's ability to start against Manchester City, following the confirmation that Bukayo Saka will miss the upcoming match. Saka has been out of action since last month's Carabao Cup final and will not be available for the crucial clash at the Etihad Stadium.
Meanwhile, Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will be fit to play despite suffering a knee injury in the midweek meeting with Sporting. Dowman, who became the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March, has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season. Arteta believes the 16-year-old will be ready to deliver if called upon.
'You throw him into any context, this kid, and you know what he will be delivering,' Arteta said. 'He has shown that this season in whatever games we have used him.' The absence of Saka is a significant blow for Arsenal, who are seeking to reopen their nine-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. 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 to Arsenal. '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.'