Journalist Charles Watts has now provided a key fitness update on one Arsenal player ahead of the Gunners’ encounter with Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta will have some key selection decisions to make when Arsenal travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The Spanish coach will be keen to name the strongest starting XI he possibly can for this crucial Premier League clash. However, there are doubts over a couple of the Gunners’ star men. Gabriel Martinelli may not be fit to face Manchester City. The Brazilian winger has not been available for club or country for the last couple of weeks after he sustained an injury against Sheffield United. Martinelli was subsequently spotted using crutches at the Emirates Stadium.
There are also concerns about Bukayo Saka. The Hale End academy graduate has struggled throughout the international break. Saka dropped out of the England squad and faces a race against time to be ready to feature against Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions.
Will Bukayo Saka play for Arsenal v Man City?
Charles Watts has now shared his information on Saka’s current condition. Writing in his Daily Briefing column, the reporter revealed, “I do expect Bukayo Saka to be fit. From the conversations I’ve had, I do not get the impression that his withdrawal from the England squad is much to be concerned about. The issue was described to me as a ‘slight muscle injury’, but it’s not thought to be serious. Arsenal will make a late call on Saka, but the hope right now is that he will make the trip to Manchester.”
It would be a huge blow for Arteta if the 22-year-old was to be unable to make the trip to the north west. Saka has been Arsenal’s most potent attacking player this season, having racked up 16 goals and 13 assists in 37 appearances across all competitions.
However, the Gunners will know that they have what it takes to overcome Manchester City even without the involvement of the England man, as they did so with a 1-0 win in the reverse fixture at the Emirates Stadium early this season. Gabriel Jesus is the man most likely to deputise for Saka on the right flank if required, and he will be keen to make an impact against his former club.
However, based on Watts’ update, it seems likely that Saka will be able to play a part at the Etihad Stadium. If that is the case, then Arteta will be looking to Saka to demonstrate his “world-class” credentials and have a telling impact on the outcome of the match.
How important is Manchester City v Arsenal?
The importance of this fixture can scarcely be overstated. The Premier League title race is currently so tight between Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool. Whilst the title won’t be won or lost by any of these three battling clubs this weekend, there could be a huge swing of momentum.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes it is crucial for Arsenal to beat Manchester City themselves, as they can’t rely upon them to drop points elsewhere. Such a triumph would also provide a huge confidence boost for the north London club and would send out a clear message of intent.