Mikel Arteta praised the “magic” of Noni Madueke after he scored two goals in Arsenal‘s 3-0 victory over Club Brugge, moving the north London club closer to the Champions League knockout stages.
Madueke got the scoring started with a powerful strike 27 minutes in and added a second just 80 seconds into the second half, nodding the ball into an empty net.
Gabriel Martinelli sealed the win with a stunning third goal ten minutes later.
– Champions League Recap: Madueke, Martinelli Stand Out for Arsenal
Though some Arsenal fans were hesitant about Madueke’s transfer from Chelsea, the £50 million ($67m) player has quickly made an impact on his new team, following his scoring debut in a 3-1 win against Bayern Munich two weeks ago with another two-goal performance.
“It was an incredible goal,” Arteta remarked on Madueke’s first goal. “When you discuss individual talent and magical moments, that’s exactly what he delivered. To take the ball from such a distance, weave past defenders, and finish with such quality and power is remarkable.”
“At this level, it’s vital for individual players to step up and make a difference. I’m really pleased because we’re starting to get players back in the attack, and you can see the improvement.”
Bukayo Saka has claimed the right side of Arsenal’s attack, but Madueke’s current form creates an interesting challenge for Arteta.
When asked if Madueke is now essential to the lineup, Arteta responded, “It’s about maintaining consistency.”
“It’s not just about one game or two; it’s about delivering that performance over 10 games straight, every three days. That’s the level we need to reach—it’s a challenge for him.”
Despite missing eight injured players, including Jurriën Timber, Arsenal joined Manchester United, Leeds, Liverpool, and Manchester City as the fifth English club to win their first six European Cup matches.
The top eight teams are guaranteed a place in the last 16, and Arsenal, with a flawless record, leads by six points ahead of ninth-place Liverpool, boasting a goal difference of 13.
Gabriel Jesus made his long-awaited return from injury, substituting for the ineffective Viktor Gyökeres after an hour.
Jesus, missing since his left knee surgery on January 12, nearly added to the scoring but hit the woodwork with a right-footed effort.
“It’s been a very tough and lengthy recovery for Gabi,” Arteta noted. “He’s fought hard against a serious injury for 11 months, and seeing him back with that energy and smile during his first game back is truly remarkable, and we are all so pleased for him. You can feel how much we appreciate him!”
“If he keeps playing like this, he will add a new dimension to the team, and I’m delighted to have him back.”