In July, when news broke that the club was preparing to sign Madueke from rival team Chelsea, Arsenal fans strongly objected. They organized campaigns urging the club to abandon the deal, with over 4,000 people signing a petition and using the hashtag #NoToMadueke on social media platform X. Despite this, Arsenal still spent 68 million USD to acquire the English winger.
Arteta asserted that he was not swayed by the fan reaction. "If anything, that campaign only gave me more belief and determination to do everything possible to help Madueke adapt", the Spanish manager stated during a press conference before the Chelsea match in matchday 13 of the Premier League.
He also noted that the wave of opposition was brief, with fans quickly changing their minds after witnessing Madueke's performances. "Madueke appreciated it and saw it as a source of motivation to push forward. It did not affect him negatively at all", he added.
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Noni Madueke celebrates scoring to make it 2-1 in Arsenal's 3-1 victory over Bayern at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 26/11. *PA Wire* |
Madueke had a promising start but missed six of the first 12 Premier League matches due to a knee injury. After nine weeks of recovery, he made his return in the 4-1 win against Tottenham last weekend and is now ready to face his former club, Chelsea.
Midweek, in the 3-1 Champions League victory over Bayern Munich, Madueke came off the bench to score his first goal for the Gunners, following a cross from Riccardo Calafiori. He shared: "It was a perfect evening. My first goal for the club, and in a big Champions League match. After a long time out with injury, this moment feels amazing".
The English newcomer believes the win against Bayern affirms Arsenal's progress, as they are the only team with a perfect record and currently lead the Champions League. "That was a big statement. Not just in the Champions League, but our form in the domestic league is also impressive. We need to maintain this level and continue to push our limits", the 23-year-old player stated.
Returning from his long-term injury, Madueke is eager to play more, especially in today's away fixture against Chelsea. Before joining Arsenal, the English midfielder scored 20 goals in 92 matches for the Stamford Bridge side. "Eight weeks without touching a ball, you just want to get on the pitch immediately. I cannot wait any longer", he revealed.
By Hong Duy (via Daily Mail)
