Arsenal's title hopes have suffered a significant blow ahead of their crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City this Sunday. Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that star winger Bukayo Saka will miss the match as he continues to recover from an achilles issue. Saka has not featured for the Gunners since their Carabao Cup final defeat to the same opponents in March, leaving a major creative void in Arsenal's attack for this pivotal fixture.

In more positive news, Arteta provided an update on fellow winger Noni Madueke, who was forced off during Wednesday's Champions League match against Sporting. The manager expressed cautious optimism, stating, "We have another training session tomorrow. He didn't look that bad after the game and he was quite positive. He is a player that pushes through pain so I am hopeful that he will be available."

The fitness of several other key players remains in question as Arsenal navigates a congested schedule. Arteta remained tight-lipped on specific updates for Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori, emphasizing the short turnaround. "We will try again. Some players are quite close but the turnaround is short," he said. "We will try tomorrow to push everybody and if they are in good position they will be part of us."

With the Premier League title race reaching its climax, Saka's absence is a major storyline. His dynamism and goal threat will be sorely missed as Arsenal looks to secure a vital result against the reigning champions at the Etihad.