In an emblematic pre-season match in Singapore, Arsenal achieved a convincing 1:0 victory against Milan, with a special emphasis on the performances of young talents from the club's academy. Manager Mikel Arteta was extremely impressed by the performances of 15-year-olds Max Dowan and Marley Salmon.
The only goal in the match was scored by Bukayo Saka, who scored a precise shot after an exceptional pass from Jakub Kiwior. The "Gunners" dominated for most of the match, with Ben White and Saka demonstrating excellent interaction on the right flank.
One of the most notable performers was Ethan Nwaneri, who showed impressive technical prowess in the middle of the field. His powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area nearly went into the goal, further highlighting his potential.
Arteta specifically noted the importance of the youth squad, emphasizing: "We have incredible coaches and specialists in our academy. The time has come to give them an opportunity and reward them". He was particularly impressed by how fifteen-year-old boys could play at such a high level under such challenging circumstances.
After regular time, the match continued with a series of penalties, which Milan won 6:5. Among the executors were Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Dowan, Leandro Trossard, and Josh Nichols. For Arsenal, Martin Ødegaard, Rice Nelson, Kiwior, and Salmon failed to convert.
The club made significant investments this summer, spending 128 million pounds on transfers of Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Noni Madueke. Christian Mosquera and Viktor Jokers are expected to be signed soon.
Nørgaard started the match as a defensive midfielder, providing a stable base for his teammates Declan Rice and Nwaneri. Zubimendi, who was transferred from Real Sociedad for 60 million pounds, came on as a substitute and immediately began to dictate the pace.
Special attention should be given to the performance of goalkeeper Kepa, who, despite not playing the full 90 minutes, managed to save three penalties from Milan during the series.
Young talents Miles Lewis-Skelly, Josh Nichols, Max Dowan, and Marley Salmon further emphasized the depth and potential of Arsenal's academy. A total of seven club graduates participated in the match, demonstrating the strength of their youth development program.
Arteta concluded: "These boys are part of our ecosystem. They are constantly around the team, getting used to the dynamics and requirements. Their goal is to earn their place".