Arsenal supporters were buzzing on social media after witnessing the brilliant display of one particular player during their clash with Nottingham Forest.
On Saturday afternoon, domestic football resumed as the Premier League returned, with the Gunners hosting Forest at the Emirates Stadium. It was a game that quickly turned into a showcase of Arsenal’s attacking strength and the brilliance of some of their new signings.
The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Martin Zubimendi produced a stunning volley to give Arsenal the lead. Just seconds after the restart in the second half, Viktor Gyokeres doubled their advantage, scoring only 46 seconds into play.
With momentum fully on their side, Arsenal continued to dominate, and in the 79th minute, Zubimendi struck again, this time with a well-timed header to make it 3-0. In the end, Mikel Arteta’s men cruised to a comfortable and convincing victory, one that temporarily took them to the top of the Premier League table ahead of Liverpool’s meeting with Burnley on Sunday afternoon.
While Zubimendi and Gyokeres both hit the scoresheet, much of the attention after the match was directed towards summer signing Noni Madueke. The winger, who joined from London rivals Chelsea, had raised doubts among some Arsenal fans when he was first announced. Many supporters were unsure whether he was the right addition to bolster the squad, especially considering the club already had strength in wide attacking positions.
However, against Forest, Madueke produced a performance that silenced his critics. Leading Arsenal’s attacking play for much of the match, he showed both confidence and quality, stepping up in Bukayo Saka’s role and executing it flawlessly. His dribbling, pace, and decision-making impressed fans, who flooded social media with praise.
One supporter posted: “Noni Madueke!!! What a signing. Arsenal Fans Club should write an open apology letter to him. He filled the Saka role and delivered perfectly.” Another echoed the sentiment, insisting: “Madueke deserves an apology from all Arsenal fans.”
A third fan chimed in, noting: “Many people owe Madueke an apology. Seems AFTV and football Twitter aren’t the best scouting networks.” Others were just as emphatic, with one saying: “For everyone that doubted Noni Madueke. I want a textbook apology.” And perhaps the strongest message came from another supporter who wrote: “If you were against Madueke’s signing, I want to see your public apology… Now please.”
The praise wasn’t limited to fans alone. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, former England and Manchester City captain Steph Houghton highlighted how Madueke has injected something fresh into Arsenal’s game, pointing out his growing confidence. Former Wales defender Danny Gabbidon also credited the winger, remarking on his unpredictability and ability to attack from either side, making him a nightmare for defenders.
Arsenal’s attention now turns to European football, as they prepare to launch their Champions League campaign on Tuesday night against Athletic Club.
