Arsenal Treat For 12,000 Fans At Training Gig

After two-sided game, they greet colourfully jerseyed supporters and sign autographs

- Kolette Lim

Open fields or street soccer courts in his neighbourhood are usually Irvine Ong's go-tos for a quick kick-about.

On July 25, though, the 12-year-old had the opportunity to step on a very special playing surface – the immaculate, carpet-like pitch at the National Stadium.

He was among 16 budding youngsters invited to the pitch to meet English Premier League giants Arsenal's players near the end of their open training session.

"I was so excited and nervous," said Irvine. A boy on a mission, he headed for his favourite Arsenal player – midfielder Declan Rice and snagged a cherished wefie.

About 12,000 fans turned up at the stadium on July 25 – most of whom donned jerseys and even scarves, despite the stifling humidity – to watch the Gunners go through their paces in the evening.

The session was part of the slate of activities at the 2025 Singapore Festival of Football.

Arsenal had kicked off the festival with a 1-0 win over Italian giants AC Milan at the National Stadium on July 23, and will play fellow English side Newcastle United at the same venue on July 27.