Noni Madueke is demonstrating that his contribution to Arsenal extends well beyond the role of a substitute, showcasing a heightened level of intensity and conviction that has impressed manager Mikel Arteta. His late winner against Nottingham Forest served as a reminder of his clinical ability, further cementing his status as a key member of a squad that prides itself on the impact of its so-called ‘finishers’. According to and some of them, Noni, which I was surprised. Arsenal’s ‘finishers’ continue to get the job done. And the finishers delivered because the context of the game changed a little bit. Analysis and fan views, latest Arsenal news.
Despite his decisive impact at the City Ground, Madueke has struggled to lock down a starting position, making only one Premier League start this season during the 2-1 victory over Leeds. His opportunities have been restricted by the strong form of summer arrival Christos Tzolis, who initially earned the nod on the left wing. However, with Tzolis currently sidelined by a hamstring injury sustained while on international duty, the pathway for Madueke to prove his worth has reopened. A 2-1 win over Leeds in the Gunners’ last Premier League outing before they beat Oliver Glasner’s side on Sunday, madueke has started just one top-flight game this season. With the left wing one of the positions identified, arsenal ‘s summer was dominated by talk of their search for an elite forward. The only new addition in that position was Christos Tzolis, the winger brought in to replace the outgoing Leandro Trossard, but after unsuccessful pursuits of world class players such as Vinicius Jr and Julian Alvarez. Meaning that Madueke and Eberechi Eze have had to be content with the majority of their minutes coming from the bench or in the Carabao Cup, tzolis has started the season well and has been the first-choice winger for Arteta. However, Tzolis is now out with a hamstring injury picked up while playing for Greece, and that has presented a chance for Madueke to show Arteta why he should be considering the former Chelsea man as much more than a finisher – that’s a term Arteta uses for his substitutes. Stick to the game plan, go out there and try to attack the opposition, be dangerous, be yourself and be good defensively as well,” Madueke said, hang in there. But since his £48.5m arrival, Madueke has helped the club lift their first title in 22 years and played a big part as Arsenal reached the Champions League final. It’s fair to say that the Arsenal fans have not always taken to Madueke since his move from London rivals Chelsea. I think I saw an interview where they were asking a few of our players ‘who would you call if you had a problem. But I think it is a massive credit and describes the type of person he is. Ask about Arsenal – what do you want to know.
Reflecting on his performance against Forest, the England international noted that he followed the manager’s tactical guidance after entering the fray at halftime. His winning moment arrived in the 80th minute, cutting inside onto his right foot before finding the net with a deflected strike. Madueke explained that having beaten his marker on the outside previously, he opted to switch his approach and unleash a shot to break the deadlock.
Arteta has been vocal in his praise for the 24-year-old, noting a marked improvement in his mentality following the recent international break. That mentality is seeming to have the desired effect.
The Arsenal boss remarked that Madueke is displaying a different level of anger and conviction in his actions, which is essential for becoming a truly decisive figure in high-stakes matches. We are getting a variety of ways to win in many different contexts.
Beyond his technical output, Arteta highlighted Madueke’s positive influence within the dressing room, describing him as a special character who is deeply respected by his teammates. It’s someone that’s very much loved in and around the dressing room.
This recent form is part of a broader trend of resilience for the player, who has navigated skepticism from sections of the fan base since his £48.5m move from Chelsea. Talks with people, the way he connects.
Despite initial criticism regarding consistency, he played an integral role in last season’s title defense and the team’s Champions League final run, recording eight goals and four assists in 43 appearances. England manager Thomas Tuchel and his staff also reportedly view him as one of the best operators in one-on-one scenarios. But questions over his end product remain, madueke scored eight goals and provided four assists in 43 appearances in all competitions last season.
Arsenal’s reliance on their bench has become a significant tactical advantage this season, with substitutes contributing to 26 Premier League goals since the beginning of the previous campaign. This depth has proven vital for a team that has navigated 11 competitive fixtures with 10 victories to date. Arteta emphasized that while he hopes to secure results earlier in games, the squad’s ability to adapt to changing match contexts is a testament to their preparation.
The manager remained confident even when faced with a well-organized Forest side, predicting that gaps would emerge as the opposition’s physical intensity waned in the closing stages.
As Madueke builds on three consecutive strong performances, he is proving that he is more than capable of delivering when the stakes are at their highest.
Whether operating on the right or left, his ability to influence proceedings off the bench or as a starter is currently providing Arteta with a crucial tactical outlet.
