Arsenal edge AC Milan 1-0 in pre-season opener in Singapore

Arsenal began their 2025 pre-season campaign with a solid 1–0 victory over Italian heavyweights AC Milan at the National Stadium in Singapore on Wednesday. In front of a crowd of over 22,800 fans, the Gunners showed early promise as they prepare for another title push under manager Mikel Arteta.

Arteta fielded a strong starting XI, featuring regulars Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Ben White. New signing Christian Norgaard, acquired from Brentford, made his debut, while fellow summer arrivals Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi were named on the bench.



Despite dominating possession in the first half, Arsenal couldn’t break the deadlock. However, changes at halftime, including the introduction of Arrizabalaga and Zubimendi, brought renewed energy to the squad.

The breakthrough came just seven minutes into the second half when Bukayo Saka calmly finished off a pinpoint cross from Jakub Kiwior, firing into the far corner.

Saka, who was later named Man of the Match, was substituted later for 15-year-old academy talent Max Dowman, who impressed with his confidence and flair.


Arsenal pressed for a second, but Milan’s substitute goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani stood tall, pulling off crucial saves to deny headers from Mikel Merino and a close-range shot from Leandro Trossard.

Post-match, Arteta praised his squad’s performance. "I’m very happy with the attitude and the domination we showed throughout the game. But there are always things to improve,” he said. “We are heading in a good direction."

Arsenal will next face Premier League rivals Newcastle United on Sunday as their pre-season tour continues.