Noni Madueke Unfazed by Criticism from Arsenal Fans
Winger Noni Madueke has expressed that he is "not really worried" about the criticism he received from Arsenal fans regarding his transfer this summer.
A petition titled #NoToMadueke, opposing his signing from Chelsea for £48.5 million in July, garnered over 4,000 signatures.
At 23 years old, Madueke remarked that the criticism is "in the distant past" after netting his first goal for the Gunners in Wednesday's 3-1 Champions League victory over Bayern Munich.
"You are in the public eye—people can say whatever they want about you," he stated. "But being in the stadium and witnessing how the fans have embraced me is unbelievable."
Madueke has been sidelined for six of Arsenal's 12 Premier League matches this season due to a knee injury sustained during the 1-1 draw against Manchester City in September. He made his return from a nine-week absence in Sunday's north London derby, coming on in the 78th minute of a 4-1 victory over Tottenham.
"The last game against Tottenham was incredible, and it gives me such a boost," Madueke said. "I play on the side of the pitch. I can feel the fans; I can hear them. When they are so positive towards me, it gives me a massive boost. Honestly, I am very happy about it."
As leaders of the Premier League, Arsenal will face second-placed Chelsea, who trail by six points, at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
"It might be a little bit hostile; it might not be. But I am a professional footballer," Madueke commented. "I have played in numerous atmospheres. I don’t think anything will faze me. I will just focus on the task at hand."
"This match is not about me. It’s about Arsenal securing another three points in the league and getting closer to our objectives."