Arsenal Kick Off Pre-Season with a 1-0 Victory Over AC Milan: Standout Performances Shine in Singapore
Singapore, July 23, 2025** – Arsenal FC launched their 2025/26 pre-season campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against AC Milan at the National Stadium in Singapore, marking the start of their Asia Tour with a statement of intent. The match, part of the Singapore Festival of Football, saw the Gunners dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities, with Bukayo Saka’s 53rd-minute goal proving the difference. Despite a pre-arranged penalty shootout that Milan won 6-5 in sudden death, Arsenal’s performance on the night showcased their depth, new signings, and emerging academy talents.
### **Match Overview**
The encounter at the National Stadium, played in front of 22,813 fans under sweltering 30°C conditions, was a test of fitness and tactical cohesion for both sides. Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, fielded a strong starting XI featuring new signing Christian Norgaard alongside established stars like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Kai Havertz. AC Milan, under new manager Massimiliano Allegri, were without key players like Luka Modrić and former stalwarts Theo Hernández and Tijjani Reijnders, relying on Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic to spark their attack.
Arsenal controlled the game from the outset, recording 23 shots (nine on target) compared to Milan’s meager three attempts, with 48 touches in the opposition’s penalty area against Milan’s 12. Despite the dominance, it took a moment of brilliance in the second half to break the deadlock, with substitute Jakub Kiwior delivering a pinpoint cross for Saka to finish clinically.
### **Tactical Setup and Key Moments**
Arsenal lined up in their new adidas away kit, with David Raya in goal, a backline of Ben White, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori, and Alex Zinchenko, and a midfield trio of Norgaard, Rice, and 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. Saka, captaining the side, and Gabriel Martinelli flanked Havertz up top. The first half saw Arsenal create several chances, with Nwaneri’s flair and Martinelli’s pace troubling Milan’s defense, but the score remained 0-0 at the break.
The second half began with a flurry of substitutions, including Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Jakub Kiwior, who shifted the game’s momentum. Kiwior’s first-time cross in the 53rd minute found Saka at the far post, who calmly slotted home with his left foot. Arsenal continued to press, with 15-year-old academy prospects Max Dowman and Marli Salmon making their non-competitive debuts in the final 25 minutes, showcasing the club’s youth pipeline.
### **Standout Performers**
Several Arsenal players delivered performances that surpassed expectations, blending established stars with emerging talents. Below are the standout contributors:
#### **1. Ethan Nwaneri – The Teenage Sensation**
The 18-year-old midfielder was the standout in the first half, earning widespread praise for his composure and creativity in a central role. Nwaneri, recently secured on a new four-year contract, showcased his potential with a sublime piece of skill to beat Milan’s Strahinja Pavlovic, followed by a fierce 20-yard drive that forced a save from Pietro Terracciano.
#### **2. Martin Zubimendi – A Seamless Debut**
New signing Martin Zubimendi, who replaced Norgaard at halftime, delivered a masterclass in the second half that exceeded expectations for a player making his Arsenal debut. The Spanish midfielder displayed intelligence, positional discipline, and precise passing alongside Declan Rice, suggesting he could be a cornerstone for the season.
#### **3. Bukayo Saka – The Captain’s Decisive Touch**
As Arsenal’s captain for the night, Bukayo Saka led by example, scoring the match-winning goal with a composed left-footed finish. Beyond his goal, Saka was a constant threat, attempting multiple shots and stretching Milan’s defense with his movement.
#### **4. Jakub Kiwior – The Unexpected Creator**
Coming off the bench, Jakub Kiwior provided the assist for Saka’s goal with a perfectly weighted cross that caught Milan’s defense off guard. The Polish defender showed versatility and attacking intent, possibly earning him a more prominent role this season.
#### **5. Max Dowman – A Glimpse of the Future**
At just 15 years old, Max Dowman made an immediate impact after coming on for the final 25 minutes. The academy prospect, playing on the right wing, showcased confidence with a darting run across the box and a near-miss after a one-two with Martin Odegaard.
### **Honorable Mentions**
– **Ben White**: The right-back looked sharp and reclaimed his spot with a solid display.
– **Kepa Arrizabalaga**: The new signing made three saves in the penalty shootout, impressing in his debut.
– **Marli Salmon**: The 15-year-old centre-back showed poise despite missing his penalty in the shootout.
### **Tactical Insights and What’s Next**
Arteta’s approach emphasized control and fluidity, with Arsenal’s high pressing and quick transitions overwhelming Milan. The integration of new signings and academy talents signals a squad ready to challenge for silverware. However, the match also highlighted the need for a clinical No. 9, with rumors of Viktor Gyökeres’ arrival intensifying.
Arsenal’s next test comes against Newcastle United on July 27 at the same venue, followed by a clash with Tottenham Hotspur in Hong Kong on July 31.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s 1-0 win over AC Milan was a promising start to their pre-season, blending established stars with exciting new faces. Standout performances from Nwaneri, Zubimendi, Saka, Kiwior, and Dowman set a positive tone for the season ahead. As Arsenal continue their Asia Tour, fans will be eager to see how this talented squad evolves under Arteta’s guidance.
