The England international was one of eight new additions during the transfer window, joining from the Blues in a deal that could reach £52 million with add-ons. ..Continue Reading
At first, some Arsenal fans voiced skepticism online about the move. But Madueke quickly silenced doubters with standout performances early in the season, especially during September’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
He’s missed the last 11 matches in all competitions due to a knee injury, though there’s optimism he could return for the north London derby against Tottenham after the international break.
Ahead of that clash, Madueke spoke about his bond with Arsenal supporters. He acknowledged the initial online reaction but emphasized the uplifting energy he’s felt inside the Emirates.
“The team has been great. Of course we’re flying. It’s not just a team of great and talented players,” he told The Dispatch podcast. “It’s a team full of good people. And I think the culture around here is probably the best I’ve seen.
“And yeah, in terms of the supporters, it was a bit dicey at the start on social media and stuff before I came to the club. But when I’ve been in the stadium, I haven’t felt like the fans (have been criticising me).
“Obviously I play on the side down the pitch so I can hear them and they push me on throughout the game. Whenever I get the ball I hear them.
“God willing that continues because it gives me a big. big boost.
“I always love playing at the Emirates. I always look forward to the next game when I’m back there. The fans have been amazing and I really appreciate how they’ve handled everything.”
Earlier in the season, Mikel Arteta commented on Madueke’s reaction to the online criticism surrounding his signing.
“We were about to sign him and there was that reaction around him. I spoke to him and he was like ‘I can’t wait to put that shirt on and play for you guys’,” he said.
“I said, ‘well, let’s bring him’. If I was convinced before, I’m more convinced now that he’s going to do it and yeah, I think he has such a power, such a capacity to repeat efforts.
“Because to be able to do that physically, you have to have a different specimen, I think. And he’s certainly that. But he’s very skilful, very unpredictable, so willing to learn and he brings joy.
“I look at him and he’s always smiling, he’s always trying things. He gets one wrong, he goes again. And that’s what I love about the creative players, because you need that to be successful.”
Leave a Reply