Former Premier League striker-turned TV pundit Troy Deeney has slammed Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke following their showings in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Three Lions won 2-0 against Panama in their final group stage game with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham finding the back of the net.
Thomas Tuchel gave Bukayo Saka his first start in the FIFA World Cup, managing his return from injury carefully. He was replaced by his Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke in the 63rd minute, but neither player managed to impress.
Troy Deeney slammed both Saka and Madueke after the game while also hitting out at Marcus Rashford. He has claimed that the Arsenal duo were 'arrogant and ignorant'. Deeney said, as quoted by Metro:
"Have a look at the possessions lost, 14 for Saka, 20 for Rashford and 7 for Madueke. That’s fine if when you’re playing you’re being really incisive with the passing, little flicks around the corner. If you watch that game, Madueke when he first came on he kicked it past someone and kicked it out for a goal kick. Am I meant to get excited about that? Rashford kept coming in on his right foot and wants to shoot and if that’s not I’ll kick it, someone will be there."
He added:
"It was so wasteful. The first half I said it was about the two centre backs and Elliot Anderson holding, dictating and giving these guys a platform. The second half they got the platform because the ball was getting out to the wide players as Panama got a bit more confident so there was more spaces for one vs ones. They got worse."
Deeney concluded:
"You know what they were? They were arrogant and ignorant. They thought all they need to do was run past them, I play for whatever club I’m better than that person. No, you’re playing against another man on the other side playing for his national team. He is going to feel it’s important to me so now I want to showcase against England with the most viewers I’m probably going to get in my career I want to show you what I can do best. They were ignorant and arrogant and that graphic summed it up in a nutshell."
While England have progressed from Group L as group winners, they have been far from impressive in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They won 4-2 against Croatia in their first game before drawing 0-0 against Ghana. Thomas Tuchel's side were far from impressive against Panama in their final group-stage encounter as they secured only a 2-0 win.
Arsenal hold talks with FIFA World Cup star's entourage over shock summer move: Reports
Arsenal have reportedly held talks with Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes following his exploits in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mikel Arteta's side are understood to be looking to bolster their midfield in the summer, with Guimaraes emerging as a top target.
Newcastle United are understood to be aware from the Gunners and are not blocking an exit. The Brazil international previously had a £100 million release clause in his deal, which was removed in 2024 when he signed a new deal.
The 28-year-old has two years left in his deal and Arsenal are believed to be looking to acquire his signature. He is currently with Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he has been impressive.