Mikel Arteta backs Noni Madueke to reach his best form at Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Noni Madueke is moving closer to his best form and expects the England international to receive more playing time in the coming weeks.

The 24-year-old winger has started Arsenal’s last two matches, and Arteta believes a consistent run in the team will help him build confidence, improve his understanding with teammates and rediscover his top level.

“The possibility to any player to give him two or three or four games in a row, I think everybody will appreciate that because they will get more familiar with the players, more minutes, more confidence,” Arteta said.

“He had a few and he will have more minutes in the next few games. So I’m sure we will start to see a closer version of Noni at the highest level.”

Madueke has also been deployed on the left wing, providing Arsenal with an alternative attacking option following Christos Tzolis’ injury. Although the winger is more accustomed to operating on the right, Arteta believes he can perform effectively on either flank.

“It’s down to necessities as well sometimes more than probably tactical decisions so far with him,” the Arsenal boss explained.

“But I think he can play in both positions. He offers something completely different.”

Arteta added that Madueke is comfortable in his new role and has responded positively to the opportunity.

The winger impressed during Arsenal’s recent 2-1 victory over Leeds United, creating chances and delivering dangerous crosses from the left. His performance strengthened his case for further involvement as the Gunners navigate a demanding schedule.

With Tzolis sidelined, Madueke now has an opportunity to establish himself more firmly in Arteta’s plans and demonstrate that he can consistently deliver at the highest level.