Arsenal 1-0 AC Milan: Key takeaways as Bukayo Saka led Gunners to pre-season trophy

The Gunners later lost on penalties to Milan.

At Singapore’s National Stadium today, Arsenal defeated AC Milan 1-0 in normal time before losing to them 5-6 on penalties to begin their preseason tour of Asia.

Before the customary penalty shootout that follows many of these friendly games, Mikel Arteta’s team secured a well-earned victory in the second half thanks to a goal from Bukayo Saka.

Christian Norgaard, a recent midfield addition, was given the Gunners’ first start, and Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi, two other newcomers, came off the bench in the second half. Youngsters like Marli Salmon, Joshua Nichols, and the highly regarded Max Dowman also saw some action.

In the first half, Milan had more possession, but Arsenal posed a bigger danger. Pietro Terracciano made a wonderful save thanks to Ethan Nwaneri’s shot.

Following the restart, the Premier League team gained greater control and rightfully took the lead when Saka headed a half-volley into the net from a fantastic cross from Jakub Kiwior.

Lorenzo Torriani, the substitute goalie, made a great save after Leandro Trossard forced him to do so. He also stopped Mikel Merino’s header at full stretch. But what were the key takeaways from the Gunners’ win against Milan?

Key takeaways in Arsenal’s pre-season match win over AC Milan

• Arsenal’s poor judgment in front of the net was clear, signalling that a new striker is a necessity for the upcoming season if they are to win the title.
• Bukayo Saka rescued the Gunners once again, as the forward flicked the ball past Milan’s goalkeeper to give Arteta’s side a much-needed break to begin their pre-season with a win.
• Ethan Nwaneri stole the limelight. The 18-year-old performed admirably, and we can expect him to be the centre of the club’s endeavours for the title next season.
• 15-year-old Max Dowman created history as he made his unofficial Arsenal debut.

• AC Milan have shown clear signs of still adjusting under their new manager, Massimiliano Allegri, and pre-season games will allow the time to settle into his system.
• The club will need to invest in a striker as Rafael Leao, operating as a centre-forward, looked clueless when he had a chance to score goals.

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