Arsenal began their 2025–26 pre-season with a 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore, sealed by a goal from Bukayo Saka in the 53rd minute. Youngster Ethan Nwaneri impressed, while debutants like Martín Zubimendi and 15-year-olds Max Dowman and Marli Salmon got minutes.
According to ESPN, Arsenal controlled the match despite Milan winning a post-game shootout 6–5. Nevertheless, the Gunners raised a ceremonial trophy, which generated a lot of discussion online.
Saka Scores as Arsenal Wins to Begin the Preseason
The way the Gunners’ 2025 preseason tour began with Arsenal vs AC Milan was spectacular, and supporters couldn’t have hoped for a greater beginning. Bukayo Saka’s calm finish in the 53rd minute gave Arsenal a 1-0 victory in Singapore. Jakub Kiwior delivered the assist, and Saka calmly side-footed the ball past the keeper.
The match had more to offer than just the scoreline. Arsenal played with confidence, moved the ball smartly, and looked sharp for a pre-season opener. It also gave Mikel Arteta a chance to test young talents and new signings under the spotlight of an international crowd.
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Ethan Nwaneri’s performance was one of the main insights noticed from the Arsenal vs AC Milan match. He made an impression at the age of 18 with his calmness on the ball, vision, and fast feet. He looked capable of competing for a regular role this season and came close to scoring before the half.
Later in the game, debutants Martín Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and two 15-year-olds—Max Dowman and Marli Salmon—got valuable minutes.
Fans Can’t Stop Talking Online
Social media exploded during and after the Arsenal vs AC Milan match. Bukayo Saka earned heaps of praise for his goal, while Ethan Nwaneri was hailed as a future star.
One user commented, “Saka hasn’t slowed down one bit since last season.”
Saka hasn’t slowed down one bit since last season
— Sama (@rwotsama) July 23, 2025
The Troll Football page jokingly posted, “Arsenal came second even after winning.”
Arsenal came second even after winning pic.twitter.com/iwBFnORVcc
— Troll Football (@TrollFootball) July 23, 2025
[UPDATE] Youth Shines and Depth Looks Promising
The Arsenal vs AC Milan match showed that Arteta has real depth heading into the new season. Even with many first-team stars starting on the bench or missing, the team moved smoothly, looked organized, and created plenty of chances.
Ben White and Saka’s link-up play on the right looked sharp. Zubimendi fit nicely into midfield, and Kepa made some quality stops during the penalty shootout. Most importantly, Arsenal’s young core looked ready to step up.
Games like these help build confidence, especially among players who are trying to prove themselves ahead of the Premier League season.
Amit Mishra’s Take
A convincing 1-0 victory in a game like Arsenal vs AC Milan has a certain quality. It went beyond a simple friendly match. It was a statement. A signal that the team is actively adapting and that Arsenal’s next generation is rising to the occasion.
This was more than just Saka’s goal or the trophy lift, in my opinion. It has to do with faith, confidence in the club’s long-term strategy, the younger players, and the system. A lot can be said about Arsenal’s current path from the way they controlled the game, acquired new players, and remained composed under pressure.
The season should be thrilling and competitive if the momentum from Arsenal vs AC Milan holds.
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