Noni Madueke has spoken out about his relationship with Arsenal supporters in recent weeks, with the winger aware of the ‘dangerous’ reaction to his summer move from Chelsea.
Arsenal winger Noni Madueke has revealed he has received a “huge boost” from supporters at Emirates Stadium, despite uncertainty over the reception from fans following his summer move from Chelsea. The England international was one of eight new signings during the transfer window, joining from the Blues in a deal worth £52m including add-ons.
Initially, some Arsenal supporters expressed doubts about the move online. However, Maduke quickly won over critics with his impressive early-season performances, most notably in the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in September.
The winger has missed the last 11 games in all competitions due to a knee problem. He is expected to feature in the north London derby against Tottenham after the international break.
Ahead of the game, Maduke spoke about his connection with Arsenal’s fan base. He admitted he was aware of the initial reaction upon arrival, highlighting the positive atmosphere he experienced at Emirates Stadium.
“The team was great. Of course we’re making strides. We’re not just a team full of great, talented players,” he said on the Dispatch podcast. “This team is full of good people, and I think the culture here is probably the best I’ve seen.
“And in terms of the supporters, before I came to the club, there was a bit of an atmosphere at first on social media and things like that. But since I came to the stadium, I never felt like the fans[were criticizing me].”
“Of course, I play on that side of the pitch so I can hear them and they push me throughout the game. Every time I get the ball I hear them.
“God will keep doing it because it gives me a big boost.
“I always love playing at the Emirates. Whenever I return to the Emirates, I always look forward to the next game. The fans were amazing and I really appreciate how they accommodated me with everything.”
Earlier this season, Mikel Arteta took to social media to explain Madueke’s reaction to the skepticism surrounding his arrival.
“We were trying to sign him and there was such a reaction around him. I talked to him and he was like, ‘I can’t wait to put on that shirt and play for you guys,'” he said.
“I said, ‘Yes, let’s take him.’ I was confident before, but now I’m even more confident that he’ll do it. Yes, I think he has great strength and the ability to repeat his efforts.”
“Because I think you have to have a different specimen to be physically able to do that, and he certainly is that. But he’s very skilled, very unpredictable, willing to learn, and brings joy.
“When you watch him, he’s always smiling, he’s always trying things. If you make a mistake once, you make a mistake again. And that’s what I like about creative players, because you need that to be successful.”
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