Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Noni Madueke’s father played a decisive role in securing the winger’s transfer from Chelsea.
Madueke, born in Barnet to a Nigerian father, was eligible for the Super Eagles before committing his international future to England in a UEFA Nations League clash against Finland last year.
The 22-year-old is yet to find the net for Arsenal but has impressed early on, helping the Gunners secure four wins from their opening five matches across all competitions.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Manchester City, Arteta revealed that conversations with Madueke’s father and agent were key to the deal.
“The moment I picked up the phone, I spoke to him, his dad and his agent, and the three of them gave me the impression they really wanted to come,” Arteta told Arsenal’s official website.
Madueke has now played for four London clubs, Crystal Palace, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Arteta also provided updates on injured trio William Saliba, Martin Odegaard, and Bukayo Saka, who have missed recent games.
