Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that Max Dowman is ready to step in and make an impact if needed, following the confirmation that Bukayo Saka will miss Sunday's crucial match against Manchester City due to injury. Saka has been sidelined since the Carabao Cup final last month, and Arteta has now ruled him out of the upcoming clash at the Etihad Stadium. Meanwhile, Arsenal's lead over Manchester City in the Premier League has been reduced to six points after their recent defeat to Bournemouth, and they face their title rivals having played one more game.
Arteta is hopeful that Noni Madueke will be available despite suffering a knee injury in the midweek meeting with Sporting, but he is prepared to utilize 16-year-old Dowman if necessary. Dowman has impressed in his 11 senior appearances this season and made history by becoming the youngest scorer in Premier League history with his goal against Everton in March at the age of 16 years and 73 days. Arteta praised Dowman's ability to deliver in any context, citing his performances throughout the season. The manager also provided an update on Madueke's condition, stating that the winger is positive about his chances of being available for the match despite limping off the field after the game against Sporting.
The continued absence of Saka is a significant blow for Arsenal, who are already dealing with injuries to key players like captain Martin Odegaard and the recently returned Kai Havertz. Arteta rejected the idea of playing for a draw against Manchester City, emphasizing his team's focus on winning and reopening their nine-point lead.
He views the upcoming match as a huge privilege and a big opportunity for Arsenal to assert themselves against one of the best teams and managers in the league. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola acknowledged that Manchester City's Premier League title bid will be over if they lose to Arsenal on Sunday.
However, he emphasized that there are still several games left to play and that his team will approach the match like any other, focusing on performing well and challenging Arsenal. Guardiola also expressed his admiration for Arsenal, stating that he enjoys watching them and learning from their approach.
He recognized the significance of Arsenal's 22-year wait for a Premier League title and the unique factor that this brings to the team's motivation. City have lost only one of their 15 league matches at home this season and recently ended Arsenal's quadruple bid with a 2-0 win in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Guardiola is expecting Arteta to make some adjustments to his team's strategy, and he is preparing his own team to be ready for the challenge.