Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Max Dowman is prepared to start against Manchester City, 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 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 expressed confidence in the 16-year-old's ability, 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 his team would play for a draw, insisting that they will prepare to win and reopen their nine-point lead. Pep Guardiola, on the other hand, acknowledged that Manchester City's title bid will be over if they lose to Arsenal, but emphasized that there are still many twists and turns to come in the season.