Arsenal started their pre-season tour in Asia with a 1-0 victory against AC Milan in Singapore. Bukayo Saka was the match-winner, scoring the only goal shortly after half-time. The first half was slow and had very few chances. Milan came closest when Riccardo Calafiori’s header was cleared off the line. Arsenal had a few attempts from Ethan Nwaneri, Saka, and Martinelli, but they were all blocked or saved.
Saka’s goal came from a deep cross by Jakub Kiwior, which he bundled in at the far post. The goal was not beautiful, but it was enough. Even though Arsenal won, they lacked attacking threat throughout the match. Reiss Nelson’s deflected shot went close, and Mikel Merino forced a great save from Milan’s substitute goalkeeper, but it was clear Arsenal missed a dominant striker. The need for Viktor Gyokeres was obvious. A penalty shootout followed the match, as required by the Festival of Football rules. Arsenal lost it, with Odegaard, Nelson, and Kiwior missing. Kepa, who came on at halftime, made three shootout saves to keep the contest close, but Milan won after Christian Comotto converted the final kick.See also: Martin Zubimendi has revealed why he rejected Real Madrid to join Arsenal this summer!
William Saliba had a strong game in defense, quietly stopping Milan’s fast counters without needing to commit fouls. Saka was the standout performer, driving attacks and handling pressure despite Milan's aggressive double marking. Only one new signing started: Christian Norgaard in midfield. He was steady and neat in possession. Martin Zubimendi replaced him at halftime and showed more creativity but less physicality. Kepa replaced Raya and made good saves during the shootout. Overall, Arsenal looked solid at the back but lacked finishing power up front, showing how important it is to complete the signing of Viktor Gyokeres.
Josh Nichols, aged 18, also came on late at right-back. He was a bit too aggressive in challenges but thrilled the fans with a quick run down the flank. These young players gave fans hope for the future and brought some energy in the final stages. Christian Norgaard, Arsenal’s new midfield signing, started the match. He played in a simple and steady way, keeping the midfield balanced. At halftime, Zubimendi was given his first Arsenal minutes. He tried some creative through balls and played more advanced passes than Norgaard but looked less physically strong. Kepa’s role was limited during regular play, but he stepped up in the shootout with three solid saves. Despite the loss on penalties, the Gunners had positives to take from the match. Defensively, they looked stable. Offensively, they lacked a strong presence in front of goal. The takeaway from this match is clear: Arsenal need to finalize the signing of Viktor Gyokeres. His power and finishing would add a vital dimension to the attack. Arsenal’s next game is against Newcastle, still in Singapore. After that, they face Tottenham in Hong Kong, followed by home games against Villarreal and Athletic Club to finish their pre-season campaign.
William Saliba had a strong game in defense, quietly stopping Milan’s fast counters without needing to commit fouls. Saka was the standout performer, driving attacks and handling pressure despite Milan's aggressive double marking. Only one new signing started: Christian Norgaard in midfield. He was steady and neat in possession. Martin Zubimendi replaced him at halftime and showed more creativity but less physicality. Kepa replaced Raya and made good saves during the shootout. Overall, Arsenal looked solid at the back but lacked finishing power up front, showing how important it is to complete the signing of Viktor Gyokeres.
Mikel Arteta used the friendly against Milan to test young talents. Max Dowman, who is only 15 and turns 16 on New Year’s Eve, came on to replace Saka on the right wing. He showed good confidence, getting involved right away and trying to cut inside to create shots. Though he only managed one weak effort, his drive was clear. Fellow 15-year-old Marli Salmon came on for Saliba in defense. Salmon was calm at the back and kept his composure, though he did miss a penalty in the shootout.
Josh Nichols, aged 18, also came on late at right-back. He was a bit too aggressive in challenges but thrilled the fans with a quick run down the flank. These young players gave fans hope for the future and brought some energy in the final stages. Christian Norgaard, Arsenal’s new midfield signing, started the match. He played in a simple and steady way, keeping the midfield balanced. At halftime, Zubimendi was given his first Arsenal minutes. He tried some creative through balls and played more advanced passes than Norgaard but looked less physically strong. Kepa’s role was limited during regular play, but he stepped up in the shootout with three solid saves. Despite the loss on penalties, the Gunners had positives to take from the match. Defensively, they looked stable. Offensively, they lacked a strong presence in front of goal. The takeaway from this match is clear: Arsenal need to finalize the signing of Viktor Gyokeres. His power and finishing would add a vital dimension to the attack. Arsenal’s next game is against Newcastle, still in Singapore. After that, they face Tottenham in Hong Kong, followed by home games against Villarreal and Athletic Club to finish their pre-season campaign.
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