Arsenal have been dealt with a massive blow ahead of the fixture against Manchester City as Bukayo Saka is set to miss the game. This fixture could be the most pivotal fixture of the season and possibly a must-win game for the Gunners to establish their dominance at the top. Bukayo Saka being ruled out of the game would be the last thing that Arsenal want against Manchester City.

“Bukayo Saka will be out against Man City; He's starting to do some stuff, so let's see that progression, how quickly we can go through it and then wait. But at the moment he’s not available,” said Mikel Arteta. Saka has been making some light progress in their sessions but he may not be match fit to appear against their rivals.

Gunners face uphill battle in title race as Mikel Arteta weighs attacking options without Bukayo Saka

Arsenal is currently in a heated title race with Manchester City appearing to be fierce competitors and the result of this game could very well have a huge say in the grand scheme of things. The injury of Bukayo Saka will be a huge roadblock ahead of the game as he is their main forward and to fill that void, it wouldn’t be that easy. The decision of the management could hint at the fitness of Bukayo Saka as with even 80% match fitness, he could make a huge impact. However, they don’t seem to be willing to risk it as it could hamper the progress of the winger and the consequences could be even more catastrophic.

Bukayo Saka has been their main player at the right wing and he is the man who creates chances from the flank. He has great technical abilities to beat defenders in a “1v1” situation and his chemistry with the midfield is what builds the attacking front. Facing a team like Manchester City in the form they have been in the Premier League without Saka, it couldn’t get any worse. There are some handy options for MIkel Arteta to turn to in the bench, but the difference lies in the quality of attack that Saka brings to the table.

Leandro Trossard could possibly come into the lineup even though he plays predominantly in the left or central areas. Gabriel Jesus used to play at right wing for Manchester City and he could also get a start. Reiss Nelson could be the most like-to-like replacement but he isn’t likely to get a start in a high voltage match such as this.  

As Arsenal gear up to take on Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday, the Gunners will be hoping to draw a positive outcome from the game. Manchester City could very well fancy their chances against the Gunners as they still are a game less than Arsenal and only trail by 6 points.