Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has revealed that winger Noni Madueke has shown positive progress following his early exit during Wednesday’s Champions League match against Sporting. He could potentially be fit for the pivotal Premier League encounter against Manchester City this Sunday.
Arsenal currently hold a six-point lead over second-placed City, who still have a match in hand. Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth last week, Arteta expressed confidence in his squad, even with the absences of winger Bukayo Saka and midfielder Mikel Merino.
Since the League Cup final loss to City last month, Saka has been unavailable, while Merino has been sidelined following foot surgery in February.
“Bukayo is definitely out, and Mikel won’t be available either,” Arteta informed the media on Friday.
“We have another training session scheduled for tomorrow. Madueke appears quite optimistic, and he’s the sort who tends to push through discomfort. I remain hopeful he can participate, but we’ll assess his training capabilities.”
“Saka has just started to engage in some activities. Let’s monitor his progress and see how quickly he can advance.”
Arteta mentioned that the club will evaluate several players who have missed recent fixtures, including Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori, as they aim to fortify the squad for the weekend.
“A few players are quite close to returning. The turnaround time is brief, so we will push everyone in training tomorrow,” the Spaniard added.
“If they are fit, they will be included; if not, they won’t.”
“We will find a solution, no matter what. We’re accustomed to navigating these situations this season.”
Arteta also hinted that 16-year-old Max Dowman, who became the youngest scorer in Premier League history in March, might feature in the upcoming match.
“He will be ready, I can assure you. You can put him in any situation, and this boy will deliver,” he said.
As Arsenal chase their first Premier League title in 22 years, Arteta emphasised the significance of securing all three points on Sunday to maintain their championship aspirations.
“This is undoubtedly the most crucial match, as it’s the next one on our schedule. We have earned our spot in this title race and are fully ready for the challenge,” he stated.
“We won’t waste a moment contemplating a draw. Every game is prepared with a mindset to win, and that’s why we’re in the position we are.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
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