Just 2 months ago, a petition called #NoToMadueke went viral on social media. This is a fierce call from a group of Arsenal fans who strongly opposed the recruitment of Noni Madueke.
However, they must have made a mistake when they saw the 23-year-old player continuously making Nottingham Forest defender Morato film like a sparkle, while the stands shouted his name.
It is undeniable that Madueke's appearance at Arsenal has caused a stir. This is a turning point and also a contract that can reshape Mikel Arteta's reputation in important transfer decisions.
But looking at what happened last week, the shocking investment of 48.5 million pounds turned out to be completely worth it. Mikel Arteta's confidence and steadfastness have become a catalyst for Madueke. At Anfield, right before the break, he continuously asked Milos Kerkez tough questions.
And just a few days later, Madueke wore the England shirt, played impressively against Andorra and scored the first goal for the "Three Lions". The flowing energy, the spreading confidence, as if in his bloodline is now all the desire and the fire of victory.
In just the first half against Forest, Madueke became a bright spot on the pitch. No one dribbled the ball more than him (3 times) and no one created more chances than him (3 times). When Declan Rice was suddenly benched, the 23-year-old did not hesitate to shoulder the additional responsibility. He held the rhythm, distributed the ball and even took on corners.
In fact, it was Madueke's sharp pass that opened up the space for Martin Zubimendi to score. Throughout the match, Madueke was continuously the name to unlock the opponent's defense.
Bukayo Saka is still an irreplaceable piece for Arsenal. However, Madueke's versatile skills - from skillful dribbling to turning inside with his left foot from the right wing - are helping the "Gunners" stand firm in the absence of Saka.
All of Arteta's big signings are shining brightly. Viktor Gyokeres has been able to pocket 3 goals in just 4 Premier League appearances, Eberechi Eze immediately left his mark with an assist in his debut match, while Martin Zubimendi unexpectedly scored a double. Cristhian Mosquera also showed maturity in central defense alongside Gabriel Magalhaes.
In the optimistic picture at the Emirates, Madueke emerged as a highlight, when he built a great understanding with Jurrien Timber. Even if Saka can return to full fitness next week, it is difficult to find a reason for Arteta to leave Madueke out of the squad.
Madueke left the pitch in the 79th minute with a resounding round of applause, as an admission that Arsenal truly possess valuable assets. And when the final whistle blew, the statistics table became the clearest proof.
No one on the pitch created more chances than Madueke (5), no one dribbled more than Madueke (4) and no one won more challenges (4) than the young English star. Those numbers cannot lie, and it is hard to deny his growing influence.
Like Saka, Madueke can play flexibly - clinging to the wing and getting into the net. Even when he was playing for Chelsea, few people doubted the quality of the former PSV Eindhoven winger. The important thing is that he has found stability in his form. And it is that stability, throughout from the early days to the present, that is becoming the foundation for Madueke's sublimation this season.
