The left-hand side of Arsenal’s front line has often been seen as one of the team’s problem areas in recent years. In response, the club made a bold move in the transfer market, signing Noni Madueke from Chelsea for £52 million. His arrival adds real depth to the squad, giving Mikel Arteta three distinct options on the left wing: Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and now Madueke. This added competition not only strengthens the squad but also gives Arteta plenty to think about when deciding on his best front three.
Firstly, lets delve into the player profiles of each option. Gabriel Martinelli arrived at the Arsenal as an 18 year old coming from the fourth tier of Brazilian football for £6 million. The best way to describe his play style is direct, aggressive and confident, always looking to beat his man and cause trouble for the oppositions back line. However, sometimes Gabi seems inconsistent and lacks end product, giving him room for improvement.
The second option for Arsenal on the left flank is the versatile Belgian, Leandro Trossard. He joined the Gunners from Brighton in January 2023 for a reported £27 million, including add-ons. Since arriving, Trossard has proven to be a valuable asset, contributing 39 goals and assists in 92 appearances. His reliability and flexibility have made him one of Arsenal’s most trusted forwards, capable of operating both on the left wing and through the middle. However, with reported interest from Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Fenerbahçe, questions are beginning to emerge about his long-term future at the club.
The third and final option is Noni Madueke, as stated before he arrived from Chelsea this window for £52 million. The right footed left winger arrives with an impressive track record with 29 goal contributions in 92 games at Chelsea and 34 goal contributions in 80 games for PSV in the Dutch league. With Madueke being a direct, unpredictable pacy winger who brings astronomical passing vision, the English winger seems like he has a future at the biggest club in London!
With Leo possibly on his way out and another pacey direct winger coming into the club. I suspect that it may take time but Noni Madueke by the time November comes around Noni will be Mikel’s main man on the left. However, for the time being I think us as Gooners should expect Gabi Martinelli to start on the opening game.
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