Arsenal Academy Stars Showcase Talent on Pre-Season Tour in Asia

Arsenal Football Club's pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong, which commenced on July 21, 2025, presents not only an opportunity for fans to witness the first team in action but also a chance to spotlight the club's promising academy talents. Under the guidance of head coach Mikel Arteta, the tour includes several young players poised to make their mark on professional football.

The significance of this tour lies in its dual purpose: to prepare the first team for competitive fixtures against renowned clubs like AC Milan, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur, while also nurturing the next generation of stars. According to Arsenal's official statement, tickets for the matches in Singapore remain available, with the games also accessible via live streaming on Arsenal.com and the club's official app through purchased match passes.

Among the academy talents making the trip is Alexei Rojas-Fedorushchenko, a 19-year-old goalkeeper who has been with Arsenal since March 2019. Rojas-Fedorushchenko has represented the club in various youth competitions, including the UEFA Youth League and the U18 Premier League. As a Basildon native, he has also made a name for himself as a Colombia U20 international, appearing six times for the national side. His commitment to environmental advocacy off the pitch further underscores the values Arsenal instills in its players.

Tommy Setford, another young goalkeeper born in March 2006, has also showcased his skills during his time with the club. Setford joined Arsenal from Ajax in July 2024 and made his first team debut in the Carabao Cup against Preston North End, maintaining a clean sheet in a 3-0 victory. His experience with the England U19 team at the European Championships in Romania this summer highlights his rising star status.

Louie Copley, born in October 2006, recently signed his first professional contract and is eager to prove himself during the tour. Copley has been a consistent performer for the U18s and has already made appearances at the U21 level. He made a memorable impact at the Emirates Stadium last season, scoring in an FA Youth Cup match against Manchester United, further establishing his reputation as a player to watch.

Another standout is Ismael Kabia, a Dutch winger born in December 2005. Kabia has shown promise since making his first team debut in the previous season, contributing with assists in the UEFA Youth League and netting goals in domestic competitions. His speed and agility make him a valuable asset on the right flank.

The tour also features Josh Nichols, a versatile full-back who made his full debut for the first team against Bolton in the Carabao Cup, and Max Dowman, who has made history as the youngest scorer in UEFA Youth League history. Dowman's impressive performance during the U18 Premier League season, where he scored 15 goals, has drawn attention to his potential as a future star.

Andre Harriman-Annous, a forward born in December 2007, has also made significant strides within the academy, scoring multiple goals for the U21s and contributing to the FA Youth Cup run. Lastly, Marli Salmon, a ball-playing centre-back born in August 2009, has made notable appearances in both the U18 and U21 squads, reflecting the depth of talent present in Arsenal's academy.

As the pre-season tour unfolds, the spotlight will be on these young stars, whose performances could dictate their futures at the club. Arsenal's commitment to youth development has historically yielded significant returns, and the current batch of academy players is poised to follow in the footsteps of club legends.

In conclusion, Arsenal's pre-season tour is not just a platform for the first team but also a vital stage for the club's future stars. The blend of experience, talent, and potential showcased by these young players highlights Arsenal's dedication to nurturing the next generation, ensuring that the club remains competitive in the years to come.