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Declan Rice Defends £52m Signing Noni Madueke and Predicts He Will ‘Shock’ Critics

Rice said his support for Madueke highlights Arsenal’s emphasis on deep rotation in attack.

Overview

  • Arsenal secured winger Noni Madueke from Chelsea for up to £52 million as part of more than £100 million in summer signings.
  • Over 5,000 fans launched a #NoToMadueke petition and murals outside Emirates Stadium were defaced with “Arteta Out.”
  • Rice said he “didn’t like” the backlash and expects Madueke to “shock a lot of people” with his direct dribbling and drive.
  • He highlighted how Madueke’s ability to beat defenders will complement the arrivals of Zubimendi, Nørgaard and Arrizabalaga to boost squad depth.
  • On tour in Singapore, Rice revealed that the mental toll of England’s Euro 2024 final defeat hindered his early form but that a full pre-season has left him fit and focused.