Arteta Excludes Saka from Arsenal's Upcoming Game Against Manchester City, Madueke Might Appear

Arsenal hold a six point lead over Manchester City in second place, with City having one match left to play. Following a 2 1 defeat to Bournemouth at home last week, Arteta stated that his team is still upbeat despite missing key winger Bukayo Saka and midfielder Mikel Merino.

Saka has been absent since the League Cup final loss to City a month ago, and Merino has not featured since his foot operation in February.

Bukayo will definitely miss out, and so will Mikel, Arteta informed the press on Friday.

We have one more training tomorrow. Madueke looks promising, as he is the type of player who battles pain. I am optimistic he could make it, but it depends on whether he can join the session.

Saka is beginning some light activities. We need to monitor his recovery and speed it up where possible.

Arteta mentioned that the team will evaluate a few players sidelined for recent games, such as Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori, to strengthen the lineup for the upcoming fixture.

A few are nearly ready. The recovery period is brief. We aim to encourage everyone in tomorrows session, the Spanish manager noted.

If they feel fit, they will join the group. If not, they sit it out.

We always find a way, no matter what. This season has taught us to adapt.

Arteta hinted that 16 year old Max Dowman, the youngest ever Premier League goalscorer from March, might get a chance.

He will be prepared, no doubt. Put him in any situation, and this young talent will perform, he added.

Arsenal seek their first Premier League crown in over two decades, and Arteta highlighted the need for a victory on Sunday to maintain their challenge.

This clash is vital, being the immediate one ahead. We deserve to be here fighting for the top spot, he commented.

We will not even consider settling for less than a win. Every match is approached to secure victory, which explains our current standing.