Arsenal Star Noni Madueke Shares His Secret to Battling Vicious Online Trolls
Arsenal winger Noni Madueke emphasizes the importance of ignoring social media critics and instead concentrating on forging meaningful relationships with fans who attend matches at the stadium.
The 23-year-old Madueke was a surprising addition to north London during the summer transfer window, signing a five-year deal after the current Premier League table-toppers reached an agreement with London rivals Chelsea for a fee exceeding £50 million.
The transfer sparked online backlash before completion, with certain fans attempting to influence the club's decision through a '#NotoMadueke' social media movement. However, Arsenal disregarded these protests and proceeded with the signing.
As expected, Madueke has gradually silenced his critics through a string of promising displays. While not yet a guaranteed starter under manager Mikel Arteta, he has established himself as an effective backup to Bukayo Saka, contributing three goals during the Champions League league phase—including a powerful strike from beyond the penalty box against Club Brugge.
In an interview with Sky Sports before Arsenal's Saturday fixture against Everton, Madueke discussed feeling the support from his new fanbase—and explained how he's learned to connect with paying supporters rather than anonymous social media critics.
"I experienced that from the very beginning," Madueke commented regarding his bond with matchday attendees. "I believe we share a strong connection. I can hear them and sense their presence in the stadium. I feel their affection and want to channel that energy to score goals and secure victories for my team.
"We exist in an era where everyone can express opinions online, whether positive or negative. You must accept it as it comes. There's no point in dwelling on it too much.
"However, it's crucial to build that relationship with the people in the stadium who support the team week after week. I think that's the minimum you can do—maintain that kind of bond and give your all on the field for them."
Madueke: My Best Form Is Yet to Come
While Madueke has shown flashes of brilliance for Arsenal, he hasn't yet established regular consistency in Premier League competition. After missing six games due to a knee problem, the former PSV Eindhoven attacker has made only three league starts and accumulated 423 minutes of playing time—equivalent to fewer than five complete matches.
"Absolutely not [reached peak performance]," Madueke stated. "There's still plenty of the campaign remaining. I'm confident I'll continue improving and getting stronger.
This is why Madueke believes he has much more to contribute to Arsenal, who are attempting to break their 22-year Premier League championship drought following significant summer investment in their roster.