Noni Madueke has scored 20 goals in 92 games for Chelsea

Why #NoToMadueke Is Trending Among Arsenal Fans

Arsenal’s reported £50m move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke has sparked a major backlash among sections of the club’s supporters.

A petition opposing the transfer has gathered over 4,000 signatures, while #NoToMadueke trended on X as frustration boiled over. Some murals outside the Emirates Stadium were even defaced with “Arteta out” graffiti.

Fan Concerns Over Madueke’s Signing

At 23, Madueke is an England international and a proven Premier League talent. Yet many Gunners fans feel the club should be chasing bigger names, such as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo or Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, who have also been linked with Arsenal.

One fan wrote online:

“£50m for a backup winger who won’t displace Saka or Martinelli? It’s underwhelming business. That money should have gone towards Viktor Gyokeres.”

Others pointed to the club’s history of signing Chelsea players—six in recent years—including goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga earlier this summer.

A Divide Between Match-Goers and Online Fans

Season ticket holders voiced contrasting opinions, highlighting trust in Mikel Arteta’s judgment.

“People who go to games believe in Arteta,” one said. “Madueke might not be exciting now, but he could be another Havertz or Jorginho success story.”

Madueke’s Potential Role at Arsenal

Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £30m, has scored 20 goals in 92 appearances. He operates mainly on the right but can also play on the left, offering cover for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

In the Premier League last season, Madueke’s attacking numbers surpassed both Saka and Martinelli in key metrics:

Expected Goals (xG): 9.6
Shots: 80
Touches in opposition box: 199
Progressive carries: 242

He also provided 10 combined goals and assists for Chelsea, showing his potential to strengthen Arsenal’s depth in wide areas.

Why Arsenal Believe in Madueke

Arsenal view Madueke as a player with significant room to grow. At 23, he has already performed on the international stage and brings the direct style Arteta values—crucial against low-block defences.

The reported fee of under £50m is also less than Newcastle paid for Anthony Elanga or Tottenham’s outlay on Mohammed Kudus.

While the #NoToMadueke backlash highlights fan concerns, Arteta’s track record with signings suggests this could be another move that pays off in time.