Noni Madueke delivered a standout performance for Arsenal in their 4-0 victory over Leeds United, stepping in for the injured Bukayo Saka and raising questions about his potential role for both club and country.
On January 31, 2026, at Elland Road, Arsenal secured a dominant win against Leeds, with Madueke creating two first-half goals after Saka’s late withdrawal due to a hip injury. The 23-year-old winger, a summer signing from Chelsea, assisted Martin Zubimendi’s opener with a pinpoint cross in the 27th minute and later saw his inswinging corner punched into his own net by goalkeeper Karl Darlow 11 minutes later, showcasing his immediate impact and set-piece delivery.
Arsenal’s victory extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points, emphasizing their squad depth and resilience. Manager Mikel Arteta had held a team meeting earlier in the week to address external noise following a defeat to Manchester United, and the response was emphatic. The win at a traditionally tough venue like Elland Road, despite last-minute travel changes and the loss of Saka, highlighted the team’s mental strength and tactical flexibility.
Madueke’s performance is particularly timely as he competes with Saka for a place in the England squad ahead of the summer’s World Cup. Both players are key for their club, and this display adds to the selection dilemma for England manager Thomas Tuchel. Pundits like Fara Williams on BBC Final Score noted that Madueke has shown his capabilities for England, while Dion Dublin described the situation as a ‘great headache’ for both Arsenal and England managers, underscoring the positive competition.
Arteta praised Madueke’s readiness, stating, ‘He was ready. The way he prepares, the way he’s waiting for opportunity, I think paid off today.’ Leeds head coach Daniel Farke acknowledged Arsenal’s quality, calling them ‘the best side currently in Europe’ and attributing the loss to their superior execution, especially on set-pieces. The own goal from Darlow briefly made ‘Own Goal’ Arsenal’s joint-top Premier League scorer this season with five, a testament to their relentless pressure.
Beyond individual performances, Arsenal’s strength in depth was on full display. Substitutes like Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard contributed to later goals, with Viktor Gyokeres scoring his sixth league goal and Gabriel Jesus adding a fourth from the bench. This comprehensive team effort, coupled with a solid defensive display that limited Leeds to one shot on target, signals Arsenal’s maturity and title credentials. Paul Merson on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday even dubbed this match ‘the game that won Arsenal the Premier League,’ emphasizing its significance in the title race.
Looking ahead, Arsenal face Chelsea in the EFL Cup semi-final second leg, where Madueke could feature against his former club. The Gunners will aim to maintain their league momentum and navigate multiple competitions, with Madueke’s emergence providing valuable options. For England, the competition between Saka and Madueke is set to intensify, offering positive selection challenges as major tournaments approach. Arsenal’s ability to integrate new signings and handle adversity positions them strongly for the season’s climax, while England benefits from increased depth in wide areas.
