Gary Neville surprised by £52m Arsenal signing Noni Madueke

Gary Neville has openly admitted his surprise at the immediate impact of Noni Madueke at Arsenal, having initially questioned the winger’s £52 million summer move from Chelsea.

Neville Compares Arsenal’s Madueke to Legend Robben

The Sky Sports pundit even compared the 23-year-old’s style to former football great Arjen Robben.

Neville acknowledged that he had seen Madueke play frequently during his time at Chelsea and understood why the Blues were willing to sell him.

However, he has been struck by the transformation in the player’s performances since joining Arsenal and featuring for the English national team.

Madueke has made a bright start to the new campaign, following an impressive performance in England’s 5-0 win against Serbia with a lively display in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

This early form has begun to win over sections of the Arsenal fanbase that were initially critical of the significant investment.

From a full-back’s perspective, Neville highlighted the exceptional level of Madueke’s movement and runs, drawing direct comparisons to those Arjen Robben used to make.

He described facing wingers who make you feel “up against it,” noting that while Madueke may not yet be at that elite level, his early contributions are very promising.

Neville also suggested that Madueke’s form could give manager Mikel Arteta a tactical dilemma, potentially considering using Bukayo Saka on the left more often to accommodate the new signing on the right flank.

This public U-turn sees Neville joining a growing list of observers impressed by Madueke’s start at Arsenal, proving that early scepticism is quickly turning into excitement for the Gunners’ new attacking threat.