Saka Strike Seals Arsenal Pre-Season Win Over AC Milan in Singapore

Arsenal began their pre-season on a winning note with a 1–0 victory over Italian heavyweights AC Milan at the National Stadium in Singapore on Wednesday.

Manager Mikel Arteta named a strong starting XI that featured key players such as Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Ben White. New arrival Christian Norgaard, signed from Brentford, was handed his debut, while fellow summer signings Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi were named among the substitutes.

Watched by a crowd of over 22,800, the Gunners dominated the first half, controlling possession and dictating the tempo, but were unable to make their superiority count on the scoreboard before the break.

Arteta rang the changes at halftime, introducing six players, including Arrizabalaga and Zubimendi, as Arsenal looked to find the breakthrough.

It arrived in the 52nd minute when Bukayo Saka connected with a Jakub Kiwior cross and calmly finished into the far corner to give Arsenal a deserved lead. The England winger, who was later named Man of the Match, was substituted for 15-year-old academy prospect Max Dowman, who impressed with his composure and creativity.

Arsenal pushed for a second, but Milan’s substitute goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani produced a string of fine saves, first denying Mikel Merino’s header in the 75th minute, then tipping over a powerful Leandro Trossard effort seven minutes later.

Speaking after the match, Arteta praised his team’s performance but stressed there was still work to be done.

“I’m pleased with the mentality and the control we showed throughout the game,” he said. “There are areas where we must improve, and I’m focused on building cohesion within the squad. But it’s clear we’re moving in the right direction.”

Arsenal will continue their pre-season preparations when they face Newcastle United on Sunday.