Mikel Arteta has praised Noni Madueke’s transformation after the Arsenal winger helped inspire a 1-0 victory over Hull City at the Emirates Stadium.
Martin Odegaard scored the only goal after 72 minutes, reacting quickest when Kostas Tzolakis saved Madueke’s effort. The result extended the defending champions’ lead at the top of the Premier League to six points, despite Arsenal failing to produce their most fluent performance.
Arteta praises Noni Madueke’s Arsenal transformation
Madueke was Arsenal’s most threatening attacker, completing five dribbles and creating several opportunities during a lively display. His form has improved markedly after he struggled for regular Premier League involvement earlier in the campaign.
Arteta said Madueke had responded to that setback by working harder and returning from the international break in a different frame of mind.
“That’s the second part of the story – the first is that you need to earn the right to be able to do that,” the Arsenal manager said.
“Noni did that, he reacted to not playing often, went away, started to train and was a different Noni.
“He wasn’t going to accept that situation, he meant business, and since then he has been incredible.
“Now you are in that position, he needs to hone and improve it, so let’s see if he can do that.”
Madueke is now creating chances at a rate of 3.57 per 90 minutes, the highest figure recorded by any Premier League player this season.
His emergence is particularly valuable while Bukayo Saka is unavailable. Earlier in the season, a January departure had been discussed, with Atletico Madrid and Juventus reported to be monitoring his situation after his limited involvement.
That prospect now appears less likely following Madueke’s response. His passing accuracy, crossing and dribbling success have all improved compared with last season, while he has become increasingly influential in important matches.
There remains room for improvement in front of goal. Madueke had opportunities against Hull which, had they been converted, would have made Arsenal’s victory considerably more comfortable.
Arteta will nevertheless hope the winger can maintain his progress and add greater ruthlessness, particularly with a selection decision likely to await when Saka returns.
