Just months prior, sections of the Arsenal fanbase had vehemently opposed further dealings with Chelsea, even organizing petitions and defacing murals. Despite Noni Madueke`s status as an England international and his crucial role in Chelsea`s previous season, some fans were resolute in their rejection of another `Chelsea reject,` overlooking praise from teammates like Cole Palmer.
One can only wonder if those same dissenting fans were among the 57,000 supporters who rose in a standing ovation in the 79th minute, captivated by the new arrival who had so quickly endeared himself to North London. While Madueke might not have registered goals or assists, his influence as the standout new signing in Arsenal`s commanding 3-0 victory against Nottingham Forest was undeniable.
From the kick-off, Madueke injected vibrant energy and directness into an Arsenal side sometimes prone to slow build-up play. While Bukayo Saka typically excels in this role on the right flank, expertly dismantling defenses, Madueke offered a crucial, contrasting offensive strategy. His `exceptional` performance, as hailed by Mikel Arteta post-match, proved invaluable.
Upon receiving the ball, Madueke immediately challenged Forest defender Morato, repeatedly using his pace and skill to surge into the penalty area. Arsenal quickly recognized this potent threat, directing much of their early possession to his flank, mirroring how they utilize Saka. By full-time, Madueke had recorded 12 penalty box touches, surpassing Nottingham Forest`s entire team total of 11.
Nottingham Forest`s defensive mid-block in the first half proved ineffective against Madueke`s onslaught, with defenders constantly trying to contain his advances, often unsuccessfully. The 23-year-old was instrumental in creating five of Arsenal`s 13 chances. His direct contribution to Arsenal`s expected possession value (a metric for goal probability) was 0.8 out of 1.66, highlighting his significant attacking influence.
Despite lacking advanced statistics, Arsenal fans were clearly thrilled. Arteta previously attributed Madueke`s initial cold reception after his move from Chelsea to past rivalries between the clubs. However, his performance provided a stark contrast to the initial outrage. Securing a talented player from a rival and developing them into a star is deeply satisfying. Arsenal swiftly paid $70 million for Madueke, convinced they were acquiring one of the market`s top wingers, according to sources.
Arteta revealed that the club`s determination to sign Madueke intensified even as `Arteta Out` graffiti appeared near the Emirates Stadium, showcasing a belief in his potential despite external pressures.
When asked about Madueke`s contribution, Arteta emphasized his `courage` alongside his undeniable quality. Arteta recalled Madueke`s dismissive reaction to the initial fan backlash: “I`ll go for it, I can`t wait to put that shirt on and play for you guys,” which further cemented Arteta`s belief in the player.
Arteta expressed his immediate conviction, stating, “If I was convinced before, I`m more convinced now that he`s going to do it.” He lauded Madueke`s exceptional physical stamina, skill, unpredictability, and eagerness to learn, noting that Madueke “brings joy” to the team.
Arteta admires Madueke`s persistent, joyful approach: “He`s always smiling, he`s always trying things. He gets one wrong, he goes again, and that`s what I love about creative players because you need that to be successful.”
Madueke`s dynamism set the tone for Arsenal`s other four summer signings who also started. A Murillo injury forced Forest`s Postecoglou to reorganize, with Neco Williams moving to left-back, but it did little to halt Arsenal`s momentum. Eberechi Eze was particularly influential, making a perfectly timed run in the second half to exploit Forest`s high defensive line. Riccardo Calafiori`s precise pass found Eze, who then set up Viktor Gyokeres to score. Despite previous scrutiny at Manchester United and Liverpool, Gyokeres now appears to be the formidable striker Arsenal needed last season to break down stubborn defenses at home.
Before Gyokeres` goal, Martin Zubimendi had already opened the scoring with a spectacular dipping volley, instantly becoming a contender for Arsenal`s best debut goals. Even more remarkably, the defensive midfielder then ghosted in at the back post to head home Leandro Trossard`s initial touch. Defensively, Cristhian Mosquera performed with the composure of a seasoned Premier League veteran, making crucial tackles and incisive passes, further cementing Arsenal`s reputation for astute defensive recruitment over the past five years.
Arteta praised the five new signings who started, stating, “I`m really impressed with them.” He noted the emergence of new on-field partnerships that will enhance Arsenal`s unpredictability. He reiterated Madueke`s exceptional performance and highlighted the successful debut of a new attacking trio, emphasizing its perfect timing given their recent playing minutes.
Despite missing key players like Saka, Kai Havertz, and an early injury to Martin Odegaard, Arsenal navigated the match with remarkable ease. This stands in contrast to last season, where such absences might have diminished their attacking prowess. The infusion of new talent has clearly bolstered the squad, validating Arteta`s judgment over any initial fan skepticism.
