Arsenal’s new £64 million signing Viktor Gyökeres was officially unveiled to fans in Singapore ahead of their pre-season clash against Newcastle United, but it was 15-year-old Max Dowman who stole the spotlight once again.
Before kick-off, Gyökeres greeted the Arsenal faithful at the National Stadium, just hours after completing his move from Sporting Lisbon.
But the celebration was short-lived as Newcastle struck early through Anthony Elanga, who opened his account for the Magpies with a scrappy finish in the sixth minute following a neat pass from Sandro Tonali.
The Gunners responded with intent. Kai Havertz and Ben White had chances before a clever flick from Havertz set up Mikel Merino for Arsenal’s equaliser in the 33rd minute.
Two minutes later, Havertz was involved again, his low cross forced Newcastle’s Alex Murphy into scoring an own goal, flipping the scoreline in Arsenal’s favour.
After the break, Newcastle rang in the changes with nine substitutions, and nearly fell further behind as Bukayo Saka’s acrobatic volley drew a fine save from Nick Pope.
But the Magpies drew level once again when Jacob Murphy fired home a low shot from the edge of the area that crept past David Raya.
Late on, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta introduced teenage sensation Max Dowman, who once again impressed.
The young forward won a penalty after a dazzling run into the box, and captain Martin Ødegaard coolly slotted it home to seal a 3-2 win for the Gunners.
Next stop for Arsenal is a mouthwatering showdown with Tottenham Hotspur in Hong Kong, while Newcastle head to South Korea to face Team K League.