Softfootball can report that Ethan Nwaneri has expressed delight following Arsenal’s 1–0 victory over AC Milan in their preseason opener on Wednesday afternoon at the Kallang Stadium in Singapore.
Nwaneri played only 45 minutes during the encounter, where he registered just one shot on target. The 18-year-old midfielder, who featured in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI, impressed in midfield alongside debutant Christian Norgaard and Declan Rice, showing maturity on the ball and tireless energy off it.
He was close to getting Arsenal their opener in the first half, following a curvy shot from a pass received from Ben White in the 28th minute.
Speaking after the match, Nwaneri told club media in a statement that was shared on Arsenal’s official website:
“I think it’s a good start from the team, we’re ready to keep pushing and training and working hard.
“It was hard, it was tough, but you need to do it in pre-season to get fit, so I think it was good and I enjoyed it.”
The victory came courtesy of a well-placed strike by Bukayo Saka midway through the second half. Despite Arsenal winning the game, the preseason friendly required a penalty shootout.
Zubimendi scored his kick at sudden death, but Marli Salmon missed for AC Milan as Milan won 6-5 on penalties.
Arsenal, who narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season, have strengthened the senior squad with the arrivals of Kepa Arizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi. But Arteta has insisted there will be opportunities for academy talents like Nwaneri to stake their claim this summer.
With fixtures against Newcastle and Tottenham still to come, Nwaneri will hope to remain involved in the manager’s plans ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
The teenager, who became Arsenal’s youngest-ever Premier League debutant at just 15 years old in 2022, looks poised for a breakout season as he continues his development under Arteta’s guidance.
