Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has showered praise on Arsenal’s Noni Madueke, likening the winger’s explosive style to Dutch legend Arjen Robben.
Madueke shone in Arsenal’s 3–0 win over Nottingham Forest, where new signing Martin Zubimendi scored twice to seal the victory. While Zubimendi claimed the headlines with his thunderous strikes, it was Madueke’s electric performance on the right wing — in Bukayo Saka’s absence — that left pundits and fans talking.
The £35 million summer signing from Chelsea tormented Forest’s defence, winning 10 duels, creating five chances, and completing five dribbles. His relentless direct play earned him a standing ovation from the Emirates crowd.
Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, Neville said Madueke had exceeded expectations:
“Madueke is a lot better than I imagined. Some of the runs he made for England on Tuesday night were a different level — the kind of runs Arjen Robben used to make against me. As a full-back, you know when you’re up against a different type of player, and Madueke has shown that.”
Neville stopped short of placing Madueke in Robben’s elite bracket but insisted the 23-year-old’s movement and decision-making have been “very, very good.”
Initially met with skepticism by Arsenal supporters, Madueke is now beginning to win over fans with his consistency, intensity, and attacking flair. His display against Forest suggests that he could become a crucial figure in Mikel Arteta’s push for silverware this season.
