Arsenal wonderkid shines in pre-season friendly against AC Milan | OneFootball

Dowman Impresses as Arsenal Edge Milan in Pre-Season Opener

Strong opening for Arsenal’s Asia tour

Arsenal’s 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore was a performance filled with composure, glimpses of growing understanding and, crucially, moments of brilliance from both new arrivals and emerging talents. For Mikel Arteta, this was the type of outing that provides reassurance. The Gunners controlled the tempo for long stretches, with Bukayo Saka’s strike early in the second half proving decisive.

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The match offered plenty to dissect, but the manager will take most satisfaction from the rhythm established on the right flank, the midfield shape settling quickly and the debutants adapting with minimal fuss.

White and Saka rekindle right-sided threat

Ben White’s return to full fitness offers a welcome headache for Arteta. With Jurrien Timber excelling last season, White had to watch from the fringes following his November knee surgery. Against Milan, however, the 27-year-old started with intent and sharpness, linking seamlessly once again with Saka.

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There was fluidity in their movement and understanding. One incisive ball from White in the first half split open Milan’s left side and almost led to a goal for Saka. It was a timely reminder of the chemistry between the two, and how dangerous they can be when operating in tandem.

White completed over an hour before being withdrawn and looked well on track to reclaim his spot as a key figure down Arsenal’s right side.

Zubimendi impresses with confident debut

Among the three debutants, it was Martin Zubimendi who stood out most. Introduced at half-time for Christian Norgaard, the Spanish international settled into the rhythm of the match with calm assurance.

Zubimendi dictated tempo, moved the ball with clarity and injected urgency into Arsenal’s build-up. Within minutes of his introduction, Arsenal had found the net.

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“Zubimendi looked to move the ball quickly and get Arsenal on the front foot. He helped raise their tempo after the break and, within seven minutes of the interval, Saka had scored.”

His pressing without the ball was intelligent, reading danger well and anticipating Milan’s attempts to counter. It was the kind of performance Arteta expects from his midfield conductor.

While Norgaard offered a steady display, Zubimendi immediately looked the more assertive of the two. If this was a first audition for the No. 6 role, he passed with authority.

Dowman fuels excitement with confident cameo

It is difficult to talk about Max Dowman without referencing his age. At just 15, the midfielder’s 20-minute outing against AC Milan was an exceptional glimpse into a prodigious talent already making waves behind the scenes at Arsenal.

“Dowman left several AC Milan defenders for dead with one mazy run, earning a free-kick in the process.”

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His close control, balance and comfort in possession were evident from his first few touches. Dowman, deployed out wide after coming on for Saka, relished the space and responsibility. For someone so young, his decision-making was measured, his body language composed.

Against seasoned opposition, Dowman impressed with a freedom rarely seen at this level. Arsenal will be keen to protect his development, but this performance has only added fuel to the growing anticipation surrounding his future.

With two pre-season matches still to come in Asia, his involvement will be closely monitored by Arteta, by supporters and no doubt by the wider footballing world.