One of Mikel Arteta’s controversial calls was proven right this week after an Arsenal star thrived on international duty.
Arteta has worked hard throughout his tenure in charge of the Gunners to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League, including making several big decisions.
This is particularly true with transfers, and Arsenal were very active in the transfer market this past summer, with Arteta aiming to get his team over the line after several seasons of narrowly missing out.
[
Click to subscribe to the podcast ](https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheBackFour?sub_confirmation=1)
While signing Viktor Gyokeres was positively received by everyone, not all of his signings were, but one has silenced any doubters this week.
Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, applauds the fans following the team's defeat during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Arsenal at Anfield.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Noni Madueke proves what he can offer Arsenal during England outing
Arsenal’s decision to sign former Chelsea winger Noni Madueke raised a few eyebrows during the summer, as he wasn’t seen as someone the club desperately needed.
Madueke had been a regular feature under Enzo Maresca and showed glimpses of quality, but he failed to provide consistency during his performances.
Arsenal bought him for £48.5million, and while some fans might have questioned that decision, Madueke’s performances for England during this international break have shown his capabilities.
Madueke started for England against Serbia on Tuesday night and provided fantastic viewing as he caused problems throughout his time on the pitch, showcasing his speed and dribbling ability.
Match Stats Madueke
Minutes Played 76
Accurate Passes 20/22 (91%)
Touches 36
Tackles 2
Noni Madueke’s stats vs Serbia – via FotMob
The 23-year-old has evidently won over Thomas Tuchel, and his 100 per cent dribbling and the fact that he got on the scoresheet with a goal won’t have hurt his chances of being in England’s World Cup squad.
Many Chelsea fans had issues with Madueke’s work rate, but after winning four out of five duels against Serbia, it’s clear that Arteta’s defensive attitude is starting to resonate with him.
Noni Madueke will provide Bukayo Saka with genuine competition at Arsenal
One of the main reasons why Arsenal fans questioned signing Madueke is that the club already has Bukayo Saka in the right-wing position.
In recent years, he has been one of Arsenal and England’s best players, but Madueke has showcased that he’s not only going to provide backup to him but also compete.
Madueke has shown flashes of quality in an Arsenal shirt, but his performance for England in midweek was a sign that there is a lot more for him to offer if Arteta is able to unlock it weekly.
However, if Arteta does get the best out of Madueke, he will cause himself a headache when selecting who will start.
Despite one of the two players potentially being upset to be sat on the bench, it’s a positive problem for Arteta to have, with that strength in depth possibly being the difference maker this season.