With a potential Premier League title decider looming this Sunday, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has cast doubt over the availability of key defender Riccardo Calafiori for the crucial trip to Manchester City. The Italian international has missed the Gunners' last two matches with a knock, and his fitness remains a race against time.

Speaking ahead of the monumental clash at the Etihad, Arteta confirmed Calafiori is among several players "quite close" to a return. However, the manager emphasized the "short turnaround" from midweek action, stating a final decision will be made after Saturday's training session. "We will try tomorrow to push everybody," Arteta told reporters. "If they are in good condition, they will be part of us, and if not, they won't."

Calafiori's potential absence would be a significant blow for Arsenal's backline as they face the ultimate test against City's formidable attack. The stakes couldn't be higher: while Arsenal currently hold a six-point lead, a City victory would slash the gap to just three points, with Pep Guardiola's side also holding a game in hand. The title race could hinge on this single result.

In more definitive team news, Arteta confirmed that star winger Bukayo Saka is definitively ruled out for the match. The focus now shifts to the training ground, as Arsenal fans hold their breath, hoping their defensive stalwart can recover in time for a fixture that could define their season.