BREAKING: Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was at Emirate stadium yesterday to welcome the signing of £58M superstar as the player join the rest of Arsenal squad ahead of pre season Tour
BREAKING: Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was at Emirate stadium yesterday to welcome the signing of £58M superstar as the player join the rest of Arsenal squad ahead of pre season Tour
His instinct, he says, played a major part in his decision to join Arsenal, and he’s confident that this move will help him progress both professionally and personally.
Commenting on his decision, Madueke explained: “I’m somebody who goes with my gut feeling a lot of the time, and I feel like it’s steered me in the right direction so far. I think it’s going to be a great success, and I’m really happy to be here.” He also mentioned the personal satisfaction of returning home to be closer to his family, adding, “It’s great to go back home, be with my mum, my dad. I know my mum misses me in the house!”
The England international is looking forward to contributing to the squad’s ambitions in the upcoming season, believing the team has a clear identity and plenty of potential. “It’s already a great team with a clear identity and I can’t wait to bring my style to the team and help the boys take that next step,” said Madueke, who is determined to help Arsenal compete for honours across all competitions.
On his expectations for the season ahead, Madueke is determined to push the team towards winning titles. “To win all the competitions we’re in, I feel like we’re definitely capable of doing that. And also to help the team in every way I can and grow as a player, but also as a person,” he added.
Madueke’s versatility is one of his standout qualities. Known for being a threat from both the left and right flanks, he has the ability to pose significant problems for opposition defenders.
His direct approach, always aiming to beat his man, makes him a constant danger. “I try and be a dual threat from the left and from the right. Of course, it’s a little different when I play on the left or when I play on the right, but it doesn’t really matter to me where I play,” he said. “I only really have one thought in my mind when I get the ball to feet or in space, it is just to line up the full-back and go past him.”
During his time at Chelsea, Madueke was known for his dribbling and ball-carrying ability, ranking among the best in the Premier League for progressive carries and non-penalty expected goals (xG).
He averaged 6.1 carries per 90 minutes, which placed him among the top players in the league, and his ability to make a difference in the final third is reflected in his 3.5 shots per game, level with Bukayo Saka and Mo Salah and only behind Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer and Matheus Cunha.
His flair and incisiveness have caused problems for many defences, and he is likely to be a key player for Mikel Arteta moving forward. “I’m very happy, very excited to get to work,” Madueke said, reflecting his eagerness to integrate into the squad and contribute immediately.
“I’ve spoken to Dec [Declan Rice], Myles [Myles Lewis-Skelly], Bukayo [Saka], and even Jurrien [Timber] as well, and they all say amazing things about the club and the culture here, how warm it is and how much of a family it is. I’m really happy to be a part of the Arsenal family now.”
The winger, who netted 11 goals across all competitions last season, will bring a new dynamic to Arsenal’s attacking line, adding another layer of creativity and speed. His dribbling and shot-taking ability are exactly what Arteta needs as the team looks to challenge for domestic and European titles.
With his work ethic and a proven track record in the Premier League, Madueke is expected to be a crucial part of the Gunners’ squad for years to come.
