Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that 16‑year‑old Max Dowman is prepared to start if required for Sunday’s Premier League showdown at the Etihad. The decision follows the loss of Bukayo Saka, who has not featured since the Carabao Cup final and will miss the match that Pep Guardiola billed as a “final”. Arsenal trail Manchester City by six points after a defeat to Bournemouth.

Arteta hopes winger Noni Madueke recovers from a knee knock sustained against Sporting, yet he stressed he would not hesitate to deploy Dowman. The teenager has already chalked up 11 senior appearances and became the youngest Premier League scorer, netting against Everton at 16 years and 73 days. His versatility offers Arsenal a useful option amid an injury‑hit squad.

City, unbeaten in 15 home league games, sit nine points clear of Arsenal’s last title win in 2004 and will aim to seal the championship. Guardiola warned a loss would end their title bid, while Arteta rejected any notion of settling for a draw, insisting his side will chase victory. The Etihad clash now decides which club can claim the league’s biggest prize this season.