Arsenal’s preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League season are intensifying. Mikel Arteta is blending seasoned stars and fresh talent within his squad. As the Gunners prepare for their Asian pre-season tour, a new announcement has excited fans. Arsenal confirmed their travelling squad for the pre-season tour. The squad features two 15-year-old academy prospects, Max Dowman and Marli Salmon, an attacking midfielder and a versatile defender.
Arsenal’s youth integration on display
Max Dowman and Marli Salmon were part of training in La Manga, Spain. They trained alongside first-team stars like Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice. Dowman stands out in the U18 Premier League with 2 goals and 5 assists in 7 games last season. He has already trained with Arteta’s senior squad, earning praise for his vision.
Salmon, a centre-back who can also play right-back, was pivotal in Arsenal’s FA Youth Cup semi-final run. He showcased maturity beyond his years. Their inclusion reflects Arteta’s trust in the Hale End academy, which produced Bukayo Saka.
Arteta’s faith in Hale End academy shines through
With a relatively small squad and injury concerns, Max Dowman and Marli Salmon could see minutes in Singapore and Hong Kong. Their presence follows the likes of Myles Lewis-Skelly, who broke through last season. This signals Arsenal’s commitment to nurturing future stars. As a result, fans are excited about the future.
The Gunners recently completed the signing of Demiane Agustien for an undisclosed fee. Meanwhile, Arsenal are close to a record-breaking agreement for another talented midfielder. The summer transfer window is getting even better for the club.
Pre-season tour a chance for youngsters to shine
Arsenal face AC Milan on July 23, and these youngsters may get a chance to shine. This bold move underscores Arsenal’s vision for a dynamic 2025/26 campaign. The vision is to blend youth and experience to chase Premier League glory.
Arsenal’s commitment to integrating youth into the first-team setup is clear. This pre-season tour will provide valuable experience for these young players. It will be interesting to see if either of them can break into the first team this season.
Arsenal Pre-Season Asia Tour 2025 – Travelling squad
Goalkeepers: David Raya, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Tommy Setford, Alexei Rojas-Fedorushchenko.
Defenders: William Saliba, Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Josh Nichols, Marli Salmon.
Midfielders: Martin Odegaard, Christian Norgaard, Mikel Merino, Sambi Lokonga, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Louie Copley.
Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri, Reiss Nelson, Kai Havertz, Ismeal Kabia, Max Dowman, Andre Harriman-Annous.
