Declan Rice hits back at Arsenal fans over Noni Madueke criticism, ‘I didn’t like it’…

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Declan Rice has defended new Arsenal signing Noni Madueke after the English winger received online backlash from fans after Chelsea move.

Madueke moved to Arsenal for £55m this summer, becoming Mikel Arteta’s second purchase after Martin Zubimendi.

Madueke’s role at Arsenal was to replace Sterling, but the Gunners believe he’ll bring so much more than that to the table.

As do his teammates, including his England compatriot, Declan Rice.

Declan Rice defends Noni Madueke

Speaking to The Athletic, Rice spoke about the Madueke backlash, which has been unjust, according to Arsenal’s £105m man.

“There’s obviously been a lot of talk around his signing,” says Rice. “I didn’t like it, if I’m speaking honestly. But I know how driven he is. I’ve spoken to him, and you’re going to see what he’s about this season. As football players, and players who have played with him, we know the quality he has.

“He’s so driven, and he’s proven. He wants to prove, and show everyone, what he can do, and I think you’re going to see that. There’s a hunger inside his belly.

“When he signed, he had like 10 or 11 people with him – that excitement, it’s a good thing. He’s hungry, He wants to play for Arsenal, and those are the type of players we want. It’s so positive. I think he’s going to shock a lot of people, and I can’t wait for him to come.”

Spoken like a true teammate and friend. Madueke’s criticism has been extremely poor from supporters, particularly given the fact that he hasn’t even kicked a ball yet.

Rice further backs Madueke’s character

Despite the comments made form supporters, Madueke is a strong character, as noted by Rice,

“Then I met him as a person from England and was blown away by his personality and character,” says Rice.

“I don’t think a lot of people would have him down as that, but he’s one of those people who lifts the dressing room. He really cares about his football, has high demands, and that’s what shocked me about him”

“Then, seeing him up close on the training pitch, when he gets the ball, he just wants to beat his man. He’s so positive and direct. When you’re an attacking player and in your mind the first thought you have is to go past your defender, I think that’s an unbelievable trait.”

Madueke will prove a useful asset for Arsenal in many ways, but supporters have to back him.

The winger is currently not on Arsenal’s pre-season tour, but will link up soon with the squad, hopefully alongside Viktor Gyokeres.

An exciting prospect who will surely add a new dynamic element for the Gunners.