Mikel Arteta confirms Bukayo Saka will miss Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City, while Noni Madueke could return to the starting XI.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will miss Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Manchester City, while offering a more optimistic update on Noni Madueke.
Madueke was forced off during Arsenal’s midweek Champions League clash against Sporting, but Arteta revealed the winger has responded well and could still feature, depending on his progress in training.
Arteta provides fitness updates on Saka and Madueke 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 17, 2026
Arsenal head into the fixture with a six-point lead over second-placed City, although Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand, adding more drama to the encounter. Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth last weekend, Arteta insisted his side remain confident as they continue their push for the Premier League title.
However, injuries remain a concern for the Gunners, with both Saka and Mikel Merino ruled out. Saka has been sidelined since the League Cup final defeat to City, while Merino continues his recovery from foot surgery.
Arteta also confirmed that several players, including Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori, will be assessed ahead of the game as the team looks to regain key personnel. The Spaniard hinted that young talent Max Dowman could be involved, praising the teenager’s readiness and composure after becoming the Premier League’s youngest scorer earlier this year.
A Sunday showdown. pic.twitter.com/5SeO3t0HX0
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 17, 2026
With Arsenal chasing their first league title in over two decades, Arteta emphasized that his team will approach the match with a winning mindset, determined to secure all three points and maintain control of the title race.
