Capping off a week-long celebration of football, fans in Singapore are in for a blockbuster finale as Arsenal FC take on Newcastle United FC at the National Stadium. The Singapore Festival of Football concludes with a clash between two of the Premier League’s most ambitious clubs: newly-crowned Carabao Cup champions Newcastle, returning to Singapore for the first time since 1996, and last season’s Premier League runners-up Arsenal, who are back for a second match in front of their growing Asian fanbase.

With Newcastle having gotten the better of Arsenal on multiple occasions last season, both teams are treating Monday night’s fixture as more than just a pre-season tune-up—it’s a statement ahead of a grueling domestic and European campaign.

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta was upbeat ahead of the game, especially with the early arrival of new signings, including Christian Mosquera. “We’ve been following Christian for a long time and we’re very happy to have him with us already,” said Arteta. “It’s all about getting new players settled early and understanding our ideas.”

Asked about the broader summer strategy, Arteta reiterated the importance of swift integration. “If we bring in more players, perhaps a striker, we want them in as soon as possible. The sooner they adapt, the more impact they’ll have.”

Midfielder Christian Nørgaard, who joined from Brentford, echoed that sentiment. “I’ve been with the team since day one of pre-season, and that’s helped me massively. It’s a fantastic group with high standards.”

With a packed fixture list ahead, Nørgaard expects opportunities to come. “At Brentford, I played almost every game. Here it’ll be closer to 60 matches in a season. I just need to be fit and ready.”

Arteta also provided fitness updates, noting Gabriel Martinelli is close to a return and Jurriën Timber is nearing the end of his post-surgery rehab. “Hopefully they’ll both be available very soon. Our forwards thrive on the environment we build around them. We always want more, and we believe he has it.”

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted the Singapore climate has presented challenges, but praised the spirit of his squad. “It’s hot and humid, and the travel takes its toll, but the players have responded well. We’re not at full sharpness yet, but this game is a great test for us.”

Howe confirmed that Alexander Isak remains in Newcastle for treatment on a minor thigh issue. “We initially thought it was minimal, but he hasn’t felt quite right. He’s being assessed and we hope to have him back soon.”

The Isak situation has sparked speculation over his future, but Howe was firm. “There’s no fallout. He’s a huge part of what we’re building. Whatever happens must be right for the club. We’re in a strong position financially, and we’ll only make moves that improve the team.”

On the transfer front, Howe admitted frustration over the slow market but remained optimistic. “We are looking actively across multiple positions. Prices are high and our pool is small, but we’re determined to bring in quality, not just quantity.”

Bruno Guimarães, now club captain, made it clear that Newcastle’s hunger has only grown. “Last season was the best in the club’s history: Carabao Cup champions, Champions League qualification—but it’s not enough. We want more.”

He dismissed concerns over distractions from transfer rumours. “We’re focused. Of course, Alex [Isak] is important, but everyone is training well, and the spirit is high.”

The Brazilian also praised newcomer Joshua Négafa for his impressive start. “He’s very fast, very focused, and has surprised me in training. It’ll be exciting to play alongside him.”

While Howe admitted Arsenal may have the edge having arrived in Singapore earlier, he believes the match offers more than just pre-season preparation. “We want to grow tactically, improve fitness, and measure ourselves against a top side. It’s a challenge, but one we welcome.”

Arteta, too, sees the fixture as a key marker. “We’ve come close to our goals the last few seasons. This year, it’s about maintaining our standards daily and setting internal demands higher than any external ones.”

Both managers agree: the result might not define the season, but their performance could shape it.

Arsenal plays Newcastle United tomorrow, 27th July 2025 at the National Stadium. Tickets available here

The 2025 Singapore Festival runs from 23rd to 27th July 2025. More information available here