- Arsenal star Madueke praises Nigerians, saying their work culture shaped his football journey.
- The winger says growing up with Nigerian values taught him discipline and inspired his success at Arsenal.
- Madueke reveals that Thierry Henry and Didier Drogba motivated him to chase greatness in football.
- Despite a knee setback, Madueke praises Nigerians and vows to keep inspiring young players globally.
Arsenal winger Noni Madueke has publicly praised Nigerians, saying Nigerian values of hard work and determination shaped his life and career, both on and off the pitch.
During an interview marking Black History Month, Arsenal forward Noni Madueke opened up about the pride he carries from his Nigerian roots. Though he represents England at the international level, Madueke made it clear that his identity and values remain deeply tied to Nigeria.
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“My values, my family values, which have translated into the footballer that I am today, that’s what people don’t see,” he said. “I am from Nigeria, and my parents are Nigerians.”
According to Madueke, Nigerians are driven people who refuse to give up easily, and that mindset has guided him throughout his football career.
“Nigerians work hard and we make things happen,” he said. “I carried that with me, not only in football but in every part of my life.”
When asked who first instilled that discipline in him, Madueke immediately pointed to his father.
“Watching my dad work super hard, stay focused, and remain disciplined, those things definitely inspired me,” he revealed.
He also spoke about the black football legends who inspired his belief that football was a space where he belonged, mentioning Arsenal legend Thierry Henry and former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.
“Thierry Henry. Didier Drogba as well. I love that they were crucial in big moments for their clubs,” he said.
Looking to the future, Madueke hopes to leave behind more than just goals and trophies.
“I want to be an inspiration,” he said. “I want young players to remember how I played, and also remember the joy and excitement I brought on the pitch.”
He encouraged young black footballers to have confidence in their dreams.
“Everything is possible if you put your mind to it. We were brought into this world to be great, so go and be great,” he encouraged.
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Madueke’s full name is Chukwunonso Azuka Tristan Madueke. He joined Arsenal last summer from Chelsea in a transfer reportedly worth £48.5 million, rising to £52 million with add-ons. He made his Arsenal debut on August 17 in a match against Manchester United.
However, on September 23, the club confirmed he would be out for six to eight weeks due to a knee injury sustained during a clash with Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium.
