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“weapon”

Mikel Arteta is confident that Noni Madueke has proven himself to be a valuable “weapon” for Arsenal after facing unacceptable online abuse from some supporters.

The £55 million acquisition from Chelsea has faced criticism from certain Arsenal fans due to his move from Stamford Bridge.

Nevertheless, the England international Madueke delivered a remarkable performance as a second-half substitute during Saturday’s 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao.

Arteta believes that the cheers from fans at the Emirates have significantly enhanced the versatile player’s confidence.

As he gears up for next Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United, Manager Arteta remarked: “I think the reception he got each time he touched the ball was incredibly uplifting.

“Such support motivates any player; it creates energy. You can see his talent every time he has the ball, especially in one-on-one situations near the box. The ball appears to find him effortlessly in our shirt inside the box, and that’s a major asset.

“He can play on either flank without any issues, making him an essential weapon for us.”

Madueke has given Arteta a positive selection challenge ahead of the Premier League kickoff against Manchester United next Sunday.

Gabriel Martinelli showed promise against Athletic Bilbao, demonstrating improvement compared to his less effective performance in the 3-2 loss to Villarreal on Wednesday.

However, Madueke brought an added spark on the left after coming on at halftime. The only worry for Arteta is that Madueke isn’t yet fully match fit, having taken a brief break after Chelsea’s Club World Cup victory in the United States.

Leandro Trossard is Arteta’s sole immediate injury concern; he missed Saturday’s match due to a minor groin issue but is anticipated to return to training shortly.

That said, Trossard, who might be transferred in the coming weeks, is unlikely to be fit for Sunday’s tough opening match against United.