Noni Madueke was heavily criticized after Arsenal lost to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, but struggled to make an impact on the match until winning a penalty in the shootout.
(Image: David Ramos/Getty Images)
Noni Madueke hit back at his critics after Arsenal’s victory parade on Sunday. The Gunners ended their 22-year wait to become English champions as they raced through North London in an open-top bus with the Premier League trophy in hand.
Mikel Arteta’s side were also hoping to become European champions the night before, but they just fell short. Arsenal lost to holders Paris Saint-Germain on penalties, with Ebelesi Eze and Gabriel Magalhães missing the spot kicks.
It is noteworthy that forward Maduke, unlike defender Gabriel, was not among Arsenal’s five penalty takers. The 24-year-old, who came on midway through the second half, was criticized for not stepping up, but hit back with a sharp post on Instagram.
“Champions! While others tweet and post,” Madueke wrote alongside a photo of Rice holding the Premier League trophy. “Thank you, God. The glory is yours!”
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“Jealous everywhere,” Rice cheekily wrote in the comments section. The midfielder, who scored the penalty, added four laughing emojis.
Rice also sent a warning to Arsenal’s rivals at Sunday’s parade. “They laughed. They don’t laugh anymore,” the England player began.
“I love this team. I love this coach. It’s crazy to see the joy we give people. But next year we’ll be back for more. Lock in or lock out.”
Will Arsenal be able to win next season’s Champions League? Let us know your predictions in the comments section.
Arteta gave a short speech to Gunners supporters gathered on the streets of north London. “It’s really amazing to witness this on behalf of the team,” the Arsenal manager said.
“This is what you created. This is a moment for us all to enjoy together. Have a great day. Let’s go, Arsenal!”
Arsenal have a chance to win another trophy in the first game of the 2026-27 season. The Gunners are scheduled to face Manchester City in the Community Shield at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium on Sunday, August 16th.
“We will use this moment (losing to PSG) to add energy to next season,” Rice added after the final. “For the players, and certainly for the manager, there is no reason for us to stop here. Next season we will be even stronger and ready again, so it will be an exciting time for this club.”
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