Mikel Arteta explains why Arsenal have signed so many players from Chelsea

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Evening Standard

·21 July 2025

Mikel Arteta explains why Arsenal have signed so many players from Chelsea

Noni Madueke is the sixth player Gunners have signed from Chelsea during Arteta’s tenure

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Mikel Arteta says he is “very excited” about what Noni Madueke will bring to Arsenal as he explained why the club have signed so many players from Chelsea during his tenure.

Madueke joined Arsenal last week from the Blues in a deal that could eventually be worth £52million.

The winger is the second Chelsea player to join the Gunners this summer, following in the footsteps of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, and the sixth during Arteta’s time in charge.

Arsenal have previously completed moves for Jorginho, Kai Havertz and Willian, while they also signed Raheem Sterling on loan last summer.

And asked why Arsenal have signed several players from Chelsea recently, Arteta said: “Probably because they have some great players, and a lot of players.

“But, yeah, we try to focus on the players that we want to sign, regardless of the club they are in.

“It's probably a coincidence. What is not a coincidence is the squad and the quality of the squad. While I'm here as well, I congratulate them for winning the Club World Cup because I think it was a big achievement for them.

“With Noni, I'm very, very excited. You've seen the reaction of all the players as well, especially the ones who know him very well. He needs a little bit of a break now, but he will be with us soon showing what he's going to bring to the team.”

Madueke is Arsenal’s fourth signing of the summer - but Arteta has stressed the club want more players through the door.

“There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still,” said Arteta during a press conference in Singapore on Monday.

“In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and the quality of the squad - and we are constantly looking in the market.

“Until that happens, again, focus on the players that we actually have, work with them, and I’m very pleased with what I have seen so far in the first 10 to 15 days.

“It’s like shaking the tree again - bringing new faces, they bring new excitement, new energy as well.“We signed very important players as well, and, again, I think everybody feels that the heights have to go to a different level and it’s what we are seeking.”