Gunners' New Signings Debut in Singapore Win

1 day ago

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised 15-year-olds Max Dowman and Marli Salmon for their "incredible" performances as the Gunners secured a 1-0 victory over AC Milan in their pre-season opener in Singapore.

Match Highlights

Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal with a close-range finish from Jakub Kiwior's excellent cross. The Gunners dominated possession throughout, with Ben White and Saka combining effectively on the right flank.

Ethan Nwaneri impressed in central midfield, showcasing his technical ability with two standout moments - including a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target.

Youth Development Shines

Arteta gave valuable playing time to academy prospects Dowman (forward) and Salmon (defender), both aged just 15. "It's very good to see," Arteta commented. "Our academy coaches have done tremendous work, and this was an opportunity to reward that effort."

The manager emphasized the significance of their performance: "To play at this level against a top team at 15 years old is incredible. Our team culture creates an environment where young players can thrive."

Penalty Shootout Drama

Despite the match result, a penalty shootout was held with AC Milan winning 6-5. Notable moments included:

Successful penalties from Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Dowman, Leandro Trossard and Josh Nichols
Misses from Martin Odegaard, Reiss Nelson, Kiwior and Salmon

Academy Representation

The match featured seven Arsenal academy graduates, including:

Bukayo Saka
Ethan Nwaneri
Reiss Nelson
Myles Lewis-Skelly (18)
Josh Nichols (18)
Max Dowman (15)
Marli Salmon (15)

New Signings Analysis

Arsenal's summer recruits (£128m total) made their debuts:

Christian Norgaard: Started in his preferred defensive midfield role, providing stability
Martin Zubimendi (£60m): Second-half substitute who controlled the game's tempo with his passing range
Kepa Arrizabalaga: Untested during regulation but saved three penalties in the shootout

Noni Madueke (currently resting after Club World Cup duty) and expected signings Cristhian Mosquera and Viktor Gyokeres were absent.

Arteta concluded: "The new signings are adapting well, and our young players are earning their opportunities. This combination gives us a strong platform for the season ahead."