Arsenal Starts Pre-Season with Norgaard in Lineup Against AC Milan

In a significant move for Arsenal FC, manager Mikel Arteta has included new summer signing Christian Norgaard in the starting lineup for the club's first pre-season friendly against AC Milan. The match will take place on July 23, 2025, at the Singapore National Stadium, marking a key moment for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

This match is particularly notable as it showcases Arsenal’s strategic shift in player recruitment, with Norgaard joining fellow newcomers Declan Rice and Ethan Nwaneri in a revamped midfield. Arteta's decision to feature Norgaard prominently indicates the club's confidence in their latest acquisition. The inclusion of Norgaard, who previously excelled at Brentford FC, highlights Arsenal's commitment to strengthening their squad in a competitive Premier League landscape.

The Singapore National Stadium will also witness other exciting developments, including the debut appearances of several academy stars. Among the substitutes are 15-year-olds Max Dowman and Marli Salmon, both of whom could potentially make their first-team debuts during this non-competitive fixture. This focus on youth development aligns with Arsenal's long-term strategy of integrating young talent into the first team.

Additionally, Kai Havertz is set to start for the first time since February, a welcome return for the forward who has been recovering from an injury. Conversely, Gabriel will not feature in the squad as he continues rehabilitation following a hamstring injury sustained last season. The defensive lineup will consist of Ben White, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, with David Raya positioned as the goalkeeper.

On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli will take their places, with Saka captaining the side while Martin Ødegaard remains among the substitutes. Arsenal will don their new Adidas away kit for the match, adding a fresh visual identity as they embark on their pre-season journey.

Meanwhile, AC Milan's squad includes former Arsenal youth player Yunus Musah, providing an additional layer of intrigue to the match. The Italian giants will field a competitive team, which promises an engaging contest for supporters.

The match will be available for live streaming on Arsenal.com, along with the official app, offering fans a chance to engage with the club from afar. This pre-season friendly not only serves as a preparation for the upcoming competitive fixtures but also acts as a platform for assessing new signings and young talent in a high-stakes environment.

As Arsenal prepares to face AC Milan, the implications of this match extend beyond mere pre-season statistics; it represents a pivotal moment in the club's ongoing evolution under Arteta's management. With the Premier League season approaching, the performance against AC Milan could provide valuable insights into the team’s readiness and tactical direction for the challenges ahead.

In conclusion, the inclusion of players like Norgaard and the focus on youth development signal a new chapter for Arsenal, as they aim to reclaim their status among England's elite football clubs. The match against AC Milan will not only serve as a test of their current form but also as a statement of intent for the season that lies ahead.