Arsenal’s first pre-season outing in Singapore may have ended with a narrow 1-0 win over AC Milan, but the match was far more than just the scoreline.
From rising stars to a few concerning performances and a half-empty stadium, there was a lot to unpack.
Let’s dive into the biggest takeaways from the Gunners’ opening game at the National Stadium.
Bukayo Saka Scores, but It’s Nwaneri Who Stole the Show
While Bukayo Saka grabbed the only goal shortly after the break—bundling the ball over the line—it was Ethan Nwaneri who truly lit up the first half. Just 18 years old, the attacking midfielder looked composed, confident, and way beyond his years.
Deployed as a No.10, he was constantly drifting into dangerous spaces and embarrassing Milan defenders.
At one point, he turned what looked like a trap near the touchline into a dazzling escape act, gliding past his marker and carving out a chance. Moments later, he unleashed a slick half-volley that forced a sharp save.
He may have only played 45 minutes, but Nwaneri looked like a player ready for both regular Arsenal starts and a senior England call-up.
If he stays on this track, don’t be surprised to see him boarding the plane for the 2026 World Cup.
A Debut to Remember for 15-Year-Old Max Dowman
The second half saw another jaw-dropper: Max Dowman, just 15, making his senior debut.
And he didn’t just hold his own—he impressed.
Within a minute of stepping onto the pitch, he took on defenders, created a chance, and nearly scored.
Every time he got the ball, something happened.
With height, physicality, and serious composure, he looked like a seasoned pro rather than a teenager still in school.
It’s too early to talk World Cups, but Euro 2028? Keep the name Max Dowman in mind.
Arsenal’s Academy Talent Is Overflowing
Dowman wasn’t the only young star to turn heads.
Marli Salmon, another 15-year-old, came on as a centre-back and showed vision and confidence well beyond his years—at one point launching a 60-yard diagonal pass that William Saliba himself would have admired.
Then there was Josh Nichols, the 18-year-old right back who might not be the biggest on the pitch, but made up for it with passion and smart positioning.
All signs suggest Arsenal’s youth setup is thriving—and that bodes well for their future.
Havertz Struggles Again as Gyokeres Arrival Looms
Not every story from the night was a positive one.
Kai Havertz had another quiet game and did little to ease concerns about his role as Arsenal’s main striker.
Although he looked physically stronger and won a few tackles, his lack of cutting edge near the goal was noticeable.
Arsenal created good chances, but Havertz didn’t really look like converting them.
Nine goals from 23 league games last season wasn’t terrible—but for a title-chasing side, it may not be enough.
With Viktor Gyokeres expected to join up with the squad soon, Havertz is running out of time to prove he’s the man for the job.
Half-Empty Stadium Leaves Fans and Players Wanting More
Despite the high-profile match and several exciting performances, only 22,813 fans showed up in a venue that holds 55,000.
A decent atmosphere, yes—but not the crowd you’d expect for a club like Arsenal on a global tour.
The likely culprit? Steep ticket prices, starting around £70 and going much higher.
For many in Singapore, that simply wasn’t affordable.
And that’s a shame, because matches like this are a great opportunity to build global fan engagement.
When Arsenal face Newcastle next in the same stadium, numbers might improve slightly—but a sell-out still looks unlikely.
Arteta’s Squad Shows Promise, but Questions Remain
All in all, it was a solid start for Mikel Arteta’s men, with young players stealing the spotlight and a clean sheet to build on.
But with question marks over their frontline and an underwhelming turnout in the stands, there’s work to do both on and off the pitch as the pre-season continues.