Arsenal managed to get an all-important win against Bournemouth, but one star wasn’t happy with his performance.
It was a vital win for the Gunners at the aptly named Vitality Stadium, as they went six points clear at the top of the table.
Declan Rice claimed his first Premier League brace in the win, adding to the 16th-minute equalizer that Gabriel netted.
Gabriel’s goal came courtesy of Noni Madueke’s fantastic run into the box, before the ball ricocheted its way onto the centre back’s path for him to put it in the back of the net.
However, Madueke wasn’t exactly high on his own performance, despite his brilliant run to set up the goal.
How many goals would Gabriel score if he played up front for Arsenal?
He’s at it again!
Noni Madueke says he wasn’t at his best, Arsenal fans respectfully disagree
After the win, Madueke spoke about his performance against Bournemouth. After giving Gabriel his due, Madueke seemed to suggest he didn’t play well, despite creating the chance that led to Arsenal’s equalizer.
“I know it’s not the best. I’m still young, I’m still learning every day,” said Madueke. “It’s about focusing and trying to improve. I’m really enjoying my time here, and I hope it continues.”
While Madueke was down on his outing, fans didn’t see it that way. One passionate fan wrote, “What?? You created the first goal, kid. You created something out of literally nothing!”
A second fan made a bold claim, adding, “You’ve been playing better than Saka for a majority of games, so take it easy on yourself.”
“I think he is being a bit hard on himself here. Yes, there is more to come and always room for improvement, but I think he’s had a very good start to his Arsenal career,” wrote a third encouraging fan.
And a fourth fan took this sentiment a step further, adding, “Noni is going to get better and better. He’s fearless. He’s relentless.”
“I know the lack of G/A in the league might be getting to him, but he was so, so good today. First goal was all because of him. He’s been immense for us already,” said another fan.
Noni Madueke hoping to turn form around in second half of the season
Without hyperbole, many will consider his outing against Bournemouth, Madueke’s best performance in the Premier League this season.
Prove me wrong: The future of Arsenal is Noni Madueke on the right and Bukayo Saka on the left.
The ex-Chelsea winger has struggled to make goal contributions this season, still sitting at zero goals and assists in the league.
Madueke’s performances have frustrated Arsenal fans, but his outing against Bournemouth could allow him to get a much-needed confidence boost entering the second half of the season.
All he needs to do is make the most of his chances and work relentlessly, and the numbers will follow him. But of course, that’s easier said than done.
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