Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a mixed bag of injury news ahead of Sunday's seismic Premier League clash with Manchester City, confirming star winger Bukayo Saka will miss the trip to the Etihad.

The absence of Saka, a talisman for the Gunners, is a significant blow in a match that could define the title race. However, there is more positive news regarding Noni Madueke, who was forced off in midweek. Arteta stated the issue "didn't look too bad" and expressed hope the England international could feature, praising his ability to "push through pain."

With Arsenal holding a six-point lead at the summit, a victory would be a monumental step toward ending a 22-year wait for the championship. A win for City, however, would slash the gap to three points and put the destiny of the title firmly in their hands, given their game in hand.

Beyond Saka and Madueke, Arteta faces several other late fitness calls. Key figures Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, and summer signing Riccardo Calafiori are all in a race against time. The manager remained coy on their status, noting, "Some players are quite close. The turnaround is short... If they are in good condition, they will be part of us."

Arteta struck a defiant tone overall, emphasizing the squad's resilience amid an injury-hit season. "We will have a solution, whatever happens," he asserted. "We are so used to this this season. Whatever happens, we will have the right solution." The depth and mentality of his squad will be put to the ultimate test in this potential title-decider.