SINGAPORE: Arsenal kicked off their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 win over Italian giants AC Milan at the National Stadium in Singapore on Wednesday. Manager Mikel Arteta started the match with several regulars, including Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Ben White. Christian Norgaard made his first appearance for the Gunners, while fellow arrivals Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi started on the bench. In front of more than 22,800 fans, Arsenal looked the more lively of the two sides in the first half, dominating possession but failing to convert their chances. Arteta then made six changes at the break, with Arrizabalaga and Zubimendi introduced to the Arsenal faithful. Their breakthrough came just seven minutes into the restart, as England international Bukayo Saka latched onto a cross from defender Jakub Kiwior and slotted the ball home into the far corner. Saka, later named Man of the Match, made way for 15-year-old Max Dowman — a product of the club academy — who impressed with his confidence and flair. Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2025