Without the Frenchman, Arsenal have conceded seven goals in their last three games and will have to find a way to keep City’s 48-goal marksman Erling Haaland quiet.
But Arteta has encouraged his young side to embrace the “incredible” opportunity they will have to shock the football world by bouncing back at the Etihad to put title destiny in their hands with five games to play .
“It’s going to be a tough night and a challenge, yes, but the opportunity is incredible for us,” said the Spaniard.
“You want to be champion, you have to win these matches, it’s as simple as that.”