Arsenal winger Noni Madueke is set to take centre stage this weekend as the Gunners prepare to face Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium. With Bukayo Saka sidelined through injury, Madueke is expected to start on the right flank — and former Arsenal star Paul Merson believes the summer signing is ready to make a major impact.
🔥 Madueke’s Rise After Mixed Reception
Madueke’s arrival from Chelsea over the summer was met with skepticism by some Arsenal fans, wary of signing another player from their London rivals. Questions were raised about his consistency and ability to thrive at the highest level. But the 23-year-old has quickly silenced doubters with a string of impressive performances.
After stepping in for Saka against Liverpool before the international break, Madueke held his own in a physical battle with Milos Kerkez. He then carried that momentum into England duty, starting both matches and scoring a superb goal in the 5–0 win over Serbia.
Declan Rice has already defended his teammate’s quality, and now Madueke is letting his feet do the talking.
🗣️ Merson’s Verdict: “He Has Impressed Me”
Paul Merson, speaking to Sportskeeda, praised Madueke’s recent form and tipped him to play a pivotal role against Forest.
“Noni Madueke has impressed me in recent weeks,” Merson said. “I thought he looked good against Liverpool and he has sort of carried that form into the England team as well.”
With Saka still recovering, Merson believes Madueke’s opportunity is clear — but consistency will be key.
“It’s definitely a good start to his career in north London, but we need to see more of the same on a consistent basis to call him a success.”
🧠 Tactical Implications and Neville’s Suggestion
Madueke’s performances have even prompted Gary Neville to suggest that Saka might need to switch flanks for England to accommodate the Arsenal winger. His pace, directness, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one have added a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
With Eberechi Eze also pushing for a starting role, Arsenal’s wide options are suddenly brimming with flair — but Madueke may be the one to steal the spotlight.
🔮 Forest’s New Era and Merson’s Prediction
Nottingham Forest enter the fixture under new management, with Ange Postecoglou taking over from Nuno Espirito Santo. Arsenal fans are familiar with Postecoglou’s expansive style from his time at Tottenham, and Merson believes that could play into the Gunners’ hands.
“Arsenal need to win because they have some tricky fixtures coming up,” Merson said. “I expect the Gunners to get the job done at the Emirates.”
His prediction? A 2–0 win for Arsenal — with Madueke potentially playing a starring role.
⚽ What’s at Stake
With Arsenal looking to bounce back from their narrow defeat to Liverpool, and Forest adjusting to a new tactical identity, Saturday’s match promises intrigue and intensity. For Madueke, it’s a chance to prove he belongs — not just as a backup, but as a key figure in Arsenal’s title push.
And if his recent form is anything to go by, he’s ready to rise to the occasion.
