Noni Madueke gives his true feelings on Arsenal fans | OneFootball

Noni Madueke says that despite some initial social media backlash, he’s never felt closer to a fanbase than with the Arsenal supporters at the Emirates Stadium.

Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images

Noni Madueke has already had to overcome a bit of adversity since rumours first emerged of his transfer from Chelsea to Arsenal, with an overly-vocal portion of the Gunners’ online fanbase criticising the decision to sign him.

Things quickly changed when those same fans saw the winger on the pitch for Mikel Arteta’s side, to the extent that his injury against Manchester City in mid-September was viewed as a significant blow to the team.

And in spite of the online reaction to Madueke’s transfer, the supporters in the stands have welcomed the 23-year-old warmly, singing his name on a regular basis.

Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images

Speaking on Arsenal podcast The Dispatch this week, Madueke insisted the culture at the club has been very positive for him, and he had particular praise for the fans at the Emirates Stadium.

“It’s not just a team full of great and talented players, it’s a team full of good people,” Madueke said. “And I think the culture around here is probably the best I’ve seen.

“In terms of the supporters, it was a bit dicey at the start, on social media and stuff before I came to the club. But when I’ve been in the stadium, I haven’t felt that close to fans [before], to be honest.

“Obviously I play on the side of the pitch so I can hear them throughout the game, pushing me on whenever I get the ball, I hear them. So, god willing, that continues, because it gives me a big, big, big boost.

“I always love playing at the Emirates, I’m always looking forward to the next game where I’m back at the Emirates.”

Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images

Arsenal fans will be hopeful that Madueke is next back at the Emirates for the north London derby next Sunday, amid reports that the winger only narrowly missed out on the squad to face Sunderland before the international break.

Bukayo Saka has been in great form, so Madueke will have to fight for starts. But to have either one of them coming off the bench in big games could make a huge difference.