Arsenal forward Noni Madueke has revealed how he brushed off criticism from a section of the club's online support following his big-money move, finding confidence in the roar of the home crowd instead. The England international marked his second appearance back from injury by scoring his first goal for the Gunners in a statement 3-1 Champions League victory over Bayern Munich.
Ignoring the Online Noise
Madueke acknowledged that his £48.5 million transfer from Chelsea, which could rise to £52 million with add-ons, was met with some public opposition. A small online petition even surfaced in protest. However, the 23-year-old insisted he took it all in his stride, focusing instead on the tangible support inside the stadium.
"You are in the public eye, people can say whatever they want about you," Madueke stated. "But being in the stadium, and how the fans have taken to me in the stadium, is unbelievable." He described the atmosphere during the recent North London derby against Tottenham as "incredible," giving him a massive boost as he can hear and feel the supporters from his position on the wing.
Gearing Up for a Stamford Bridge Return
All focus now shifts to a crucial Premier League clash as Arsenal, who hold a six-point lead at the top of the table, travel to face Chelsea on Sunday. The match could see Madueke make his first start since suffering a knee injury in September, which he described as "horrible timing" after his promising start to life in North London.
With doubts over the fitness of Leandro Trossard, who limped off against Bayern, Madueke's availability on either flank becomes even more critical. When asked about the potential reception from the Chelsea faithful, the forward remained unphased.
"It might be a little bit hostile, it might not be, but I am a professional footballer," he said, emphasising that he has experienced many intense atmospheres and will be solely focused on the task at hand.
Keeping Focus Amid Title Talk
Despite the impressive win over European giants Bayern Munich and their strong domestic position, Madueke was cautious about looking too far ahead. When questioned on Arsenal's chances of winning a historic Premier League and Champions League double, he preached focus on the immediate future.
"Our goal going into every game is to win the game," Madueke explained. "I don't know if it is great to be thinking so far ahead in November." His pragmatic approach underscores the team's determination to take the season one match at a time, starting with the significant challenge at Stamford Bridge.
