Arsenal kicked off their preseason in Singapore on Saturday as they prepare for a series of matches in Asia, including a showdown with Hong Kong’s Tottenham Hotspur at the month’s end.
Head coach Mikel Arteta has brought a squad of 30 players for what marks his first visit to the region in seven years, as the club gears up for a pivotal season ahead.
Although Arteta led the team to an FA Cup victory in 2020, the absence of trophies since then has weighed heavily on supporters. With a positive start to preseason, fans are eager to see the team reclaim its status after watching rivals celebrating silverware.
Arsenal Asia Tour Schedule
Wednesday: Arsenal vs. AC Milan, National Stadium, Singapore
July 27th: Arsenal vs. Newcastle United, National Stadium, Singapore
July 31st: Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur, Kaitach Stadium, Hong Kong
All matches start at 7:30 PM local time (7:30 AM / 12:30 PM UK time)
Preseason Objectives: Strengthen Belief and Performance
Striving to regain their former glory, Arsenal has notably finished second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons but hasn’t lifted a trophy in five years. Arteta needs to inspire the young roster to understand that they can still achieve great things. Despite Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham securing silverware, Arsenal’s fate rests in their own hands.
A significant concern for the Gunners is their goal-scoring, as they managed only 69 in the previous season—far behind Liverpool’s 86. With players like Viktor Gyökeres in the spotlight and Noni Madueke nursing an injury from the Club World Cup, the forward line must prove its worth during this tour.
Transfer Updates
Arrivals
Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea, £5 million)
Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad, £51 million)
Christian Norgaard (Brentford, £15 million)
Noni Madueke (Chelsea, £52 million)
Departures
Jorginho (Flamengo, free)
Kieran Tierney (Celtic, free)
Nuno Tavares (Lazio, £4.3 million)
Marquinhos (Cruzeiro, undisclosed)
Takehiro Tomiyasu (released)
Thomas Partey (released)
Player Spotlight
Aiming to join the tour, Gyökeres remains a potential target despite ongoing negotiations. The emphasis now shifts to Zubimendi, a crucial addition from Real Sociedad after interest from Liverpool and Manchester City. His presence could solidify a midfield trio alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, especially after crucial exits at the end of last season. Zubimendi’s role will be vital in meeting Arteta’s high expectations for the midfield.
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Three Young Talents to Keep an Eye On
Max Dowman
At just 15, Dowman is a highly touted prospect within Arsenal. While he can’t sign a professional contract until 2026, he will be part of the touring team, indicating a fast-tracking to the first team. Described by Arteta as a “remarkable talent,” Dowman has previously set records as the youngest scorer in UEFA Youth League history, netting 14 goals and assisting three in his last seven U18 matches last season.
Marli Salmon
Another promising 15-year-old, centre-back Salmon, is expected to integrate into the first team, though not as quickly as Dowman. He joins only Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri as the under-21 players with Premier League experience. Salmon admires William Saliba and reflects some similarities in their styles of play.
Andre Harriman Annas
Turning 18 in December, Harriman Annas frequently trains with the first team and can represent either England or Nigeria internationally. He has showcased his versatility, playing as a winger, striker, and attacking midfielder.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights Arsenal’s commitment to revitalizing their squad and pursuing silverware after years of disappointment. The development of young talents like Dowman and Salmon could shape the club’s future, making this preseason crucial for restoring faith among supporters.
