Gary Neville has revealed his surprise at how one Arsenal player has stepped up this season.
Arsenal winger impresses Gary Neville
When Arsenal made the announcement they’d signed Noni Madueke, a fair few eyebrows were raised. The winger had barely done anything at Chelsea to deserve the fuss. So, the people were asking if Mikel Arteta is playing a wild card that could backfire.
Some people even said questioned the logic of bringing Madueke in when they already looked stacked on the wings. The player has quickly made them choke on their words. He has quickly shown he was sharper, more direct and far more confident. He even carried that spark into international duty, playing a standout role in England’s 5-0 win over Serbia.
Gary Neville admitted on his show, The Overlap, that he didn’t see this version of the winger coming. The former Man United skipper was impressed by how lively the player looked on the right flank. He couldn’t help but ask Ian Wright about where exactly Madueke fits in long-term for Arsenal.
Gunners’ depth gives Arteta options
That’s where things get interesting. Bukayo Saka owns the right wing, no question about it. Neville himself acknowledged that Madueke could find it tricky to nail down minutes in Saka’s preferred spot. But, Wright pointed out that such competition is exactly what Arsenal need if they’re serious about staying at the top.
Eberechi Eze has also arrived this summer. Arteta suddenly has a level of depth that could make the difference in a long season. Madueke can fill in both wide positions. That means Arsenal have another weapon off the bench or even from the start in games where rotation is key.
Author’s Opinion:
Madueke looks hungry and motivated. If he maintains this run of form, Arsenal’s move could turn out to be one of the smartest signings of the summer.