SINGAPORE – In a high-profile preseason friendly played at the Singapore National Stadium, Arsenal defeated AC Milan by a slim but manageable 1-0 score, demonstrating excellent early form and tactical maturity as they continue to get ready for the 2025–26 season. The Gunners controlled possession and exerted constant pressure throughout the game, but Bukayo Saka’s goal in the second half gave them the advantage.

Thousands of fans packed the stadium for the match, which was part of Arsenal’s Asia tour. The exciting atmosphere more closely resembled a competitive domestic match than a typical preseason game. With a starting lineup that struck a balance between youth and experience, Mikel Arteta gave supporters their first in-depth look at some of the team’s bright future stars. Arsenal got out to a strong start, establishing themselves right away with fast passing, aggressive pressing, and assured movement off the ball. Milan struggled to put together cohesive offensive sequences in the first half, and their backline, led by William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior, was mainly untested.

The Gunners rotated well in midfield, especially with Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, who supported forward overlaps and linked play effectively. One of the team’s youngest players, Ethan Nwaneri, made an impression with his poise on the ball and astute placement against seasoned European opponents. Even though there was no goal in the first half, Arsenal had produced more obvious opportunities, such as a long-range effort from Ødegaard that put Milan’s goalie to the test and a narrowly missed chance by Gabriel Martinelli.

In contrast, AC Milan entered the game with a rotating roster in an effort to assess young players and increase fitness. Their possession was frequently dispersed, and the buildup was frequently interrupted by Arsenal’s pressing. Milan tried to attack behind Arsenal’s high line with long balls and wide players, but their lack of coordination and execution prevented them from consistently posing a threat to Aaron Ramsdale’s goal. Milan’s ability to react to Arsenal’s pace was hindered by the absence of important veterans, and a large portion of their play was reactive rather than proactive.

Shortly after the restart, the impasse was resolved. Jakub Kiwior moved up on the left side and put a well-placed cross into the box in the 53rd minute. Bukayo Saka gave Arsenal the lead with a calm finish after making a quick diagonal move and meeting the ball in stride. The goal demonstrated the team’s increasing fluidity and understanding, particularly in the wide attacking areas where Saka has established himself as a reliable danger.

In order to control minutes and try out different combinations, Arteta implemented a number of substitutions after the objective. Academy prospects and new recruits were given the opportunity to become used to Arsenal’s system. The modifications did not lessen Arsenal’s dominance of the match; on the contrary, they increased the players’ eagerness to make an impression. In the last 20 minutes, Milan attempted to rally and push higher, but Arsenal’s defense held firm. Ramsdale maintained his composure when asked to collect crosses and handle set pieces, while Ben White and substitute Kieran Tierney successfully cut off Milan’s supply from the wings.

Structure and purpose characterized Arsenal’s performance. The club played with the urgency and rhythm of a team determined to set the tone for the upcoming season, even in a friendly environment. While the attacking line performed with fluid interchanges and pressing responsibility, the midfield trio demonstrated a nice balance between defensive discipline and attacking ambition. The unity implied that the tactical preparations made in advance were already paying off.

The loss revealed areas for Milan that need improvement. Even though they were without a number of first-team players, it was still clear that they lacked organized pressing and had holes in midfield coverage. Instead of resisting changes, the team frequently retreated into shape in a reactive manner. Although experimentation and managerial absences played a part, changes will need to be made before the start of the Serie A season. With games against PSG and Liverpool still to come in Asia, Milan’s forthcoming schedule doesn’t give much relief.

For Arsenal, this victory gives them confidence and momentum going into their upcoming games.