‘That’s individual magic’ – Arteta hails English-Nigerian star Noni Madueke after Champions League double

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Noni Madueke’s influence after the winger struck twice in a commanding 3-0 Champions League win over Club Brugge.

Arteta lauded his attacking presence and ability to change games with decisive moments.

Madueke, who was born in England to Nigerian parents, put Arsenal ahead with a fierce 25th-minute finish that underlined his growing confidence. His second came after the interval when he guided a close-range header past the Brugge goalkeeper to strengthen Arsenal’s control.

Arteta highlighted Madueke’s talent, selecting a moment that epitomised his individual quality.

“Unbelievable goal. When you talk about individual quality and individual action and magic moments, that’s it,” he said. The Arsenal boss applauded the winger’s capacity to beat opponents with ease and apply a clinical end product.

The 23-year-old arrived from Chelsea in July and has quickly established himself in European competition. He now has three goals in two Champions League outings, following his strike against Bayern Munich after returning from a knee injury.

Madueke began on the right flank, a role usually occupied by Bukayo Saka, and Arteta welcomed the growing competition for places.

He selected another line to reinforce the idea that competition lifts standards. “They both have different qualities as well, and it’s great because we’re going to need them,” he said.

“We are playing every three days, and players with that freshness and with that bite in the teeth as well. Understanding that they have to perform at their level, and this is the standard that we set. It’s something really good…

“It’s about consistency. It’s not a game, it’s two games, three games. It’s when you do ten games in a row every three days and that’s the level that we have to hit.”

Arsenal, who sit top of the Premier League, return to domestic action against Wolves on Saturday as Madueke pushes to retain his starting position.