‘He’s going to shock a lot of people’ Declan Rice reveals about new signing

In partnership with

Just Arsenal News

·25 July 2025

‘He’s going to shock a lot of people’ Declan Rice reveals about new signing

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has thrown his support behind new signing Noni Madueke, expressing confidence that the winger will make a major impact at the Emirates next season.

Madueke joined Arsenal earlier this week in a reported £52 million transfer, becoming the club’s fourth signing of the window. The England international will wear the number 20 shirt as he looks to inject pace and directness to Mikel Arteta’s wide options.

OneFootball Videos

Controversy Surrounds the Signing

While many fans have welcomed the 23-year-old’s arrival, a vocal minority expressed opposition. A petition against Madueke’s signing even gained over 5,000 signatures, a development that may have weighed heavily on the player.

However, Declan Rice is adamant that Madueke has the mindset and quality to rise above the noise.

“I know how driven he is,” Rice said after Arsenal’s 1-0 pre-season win over AC Milan, as quoted by the BBC. “I’ve spoken to him and you’re going to see what he’s about this season. He wants to prove and show everyone what he really can do.

“He’s hungry, he wants to play for Arsenal and that’s the type of players we want. It’s so positive.

“He’s going to shock a lot of people and I can’t wait for him to come.

“People have been speaking internally – the players, the staff. We know the player that we’re getting and we’re really looking forward to having him at our club. It’s going to be really exciting.”

Madueke (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Madueke’s Stats Show Serious Potential

Despite mixed perceptions surrounding his time at Chelsea, Madueke’s underlying statistics suggest he’s a serious threat. The winger ranks in the 99th percentile for progressive carries (6.82 per 90) and carries into the penalty area (4.12 per 90), making him a dynamic option capable of stretching opposition defences.

Currently on holiday after a long campaign, which included playing with Chelsea in the Club World Cup, Madueke is not expected to feature on Arsenal’s pre-season tour of Asia but is set to return before the start of the 2025-26 Premier League season.

With Arteta looking to mount a serious title challenge, Madueke could yet prove one of the smartest additions of the summer.

Thoughts Gooners?

Benjamin Kenneth __________________________________________________________________________________________ ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…