Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence in Max Dowman's ability to start against Manchester City, following the confirmation that Bukayo Saka will miss the Sunday clash due to injury. Saka has been out of action since the Carabao Cup final last month, and Arteta has now ruled him out of the crucial match against City. Despite this setback, Arteta is optimistic about Dowman's potential, stating that the 16-year-old will be 'ready' if called upon. Dowman has made 11 senior appearances this season and became the youngest Premier League scorer in history with his goal against Everton in March.
Meanwhile, Noni Madueke is expected to recover from a knee injury in time for the match, but Arteta insists he won't hesitate to use Dowman if needed. Arsenal's lead over Manchester City has been cut to six points after last weekend's defeat to Bournemouth, and the team faces a tough challenge against their title rivals. Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that a loss to Arsenal would effectively end Manchester City's title bid, but he remains focused on the task at hand, emphasizing the importance of approaching the game as just another football match. With several key players struggling with injuries, including Saka and Martin Odegaard, Arteta is preparing his team to win and reopen their nine-point lead.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter between two of the Premier League's top teams, with Arsenal seeking their first top-flight crown since the 2003-04 season.