Mikel Arteta has expressed his confidence in Max Dowman's ability to start against Manchester City, following the confirmation that Bukayo Saka will be unavailable due to injury. Saka has been sidelined since the Carabao Cup final last month and will not participate in Sunday's crucial match at the Etihad Stadium. Arteta has described the upcoming game as a significant challenge and is preparing his team to secure a win.

Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that a loss for Manchester City would effectively end their Premier League title bid, but remains optimistic about his team's chances. Dowman, who became the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March, has impressed Arteta with his performances across 11 senior appearances this season.