In the world of football transfers, emotions run high.
Fans are passionate, loyal, and often brutally honest.
But when Arsenal’s reported £52 million move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke hit the headlines, the backlash from some supporters raised serious concerns—not just about the club’s direction, but about how we treat players in the spotlight.
Online Anger Turns Toxic as Madueke Faces Harsh Criticism
Joel Beya, a known football content creator and loyal Arsenal fan, opened up on the Mail’s Whistleblowers podcast about how sections of the Gunners’ fanbase have reacted to the news.
According to him, some of the feedback has been flat-out “horrible.”
While acknowledging that Madueke may not be every fan’s top pick, Beya expressed disbelief at the extreme reactions—especially in a country that often champions mental health awareness.
Some frustrated fans even went as far as launching an online petition and using the hashtag #NoToMadueke on social media to oppose the deal.
Beya Defends the Winger Amid Transfer Fee Concerns
“Would he be my first choice? Probably not,” Beya admitted during the podcast chat with Mark Clattenburg.
“But come on—making petitions and being that cruel? That’s not right.”
He stressed that Madueke isn’t to blame for the hefty price tag, and once the player joins the squad, true supporters should back him.
“We’ve got to support anyone who wears our shirt,” Beya added.
Comparing Stats: Is Madueke Worth the Price?
Madueke’s performance last season saw him score seven goals and provide three assists across 32 Premier League appearances.
While not unimpressive, many fans have pointed out that current Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli delivered slightly more with eight goals and four assists—raising doubts about whether this deal is truly a step forward.
The transfer also reignites familiar territory: yet another player making the trip from Chelsea to Arsenal, joining a list that includes Willian, Jorginho, Kai Havertz, and Raheem Sterling over the past five years.
Is Arsenal Helping Chelsea by Spending Big?
Beya warned that Arsenal might be unknowingly boosting Chelsea’s position in the league.
“You don’t want to fund your rivals,” he said.
“Chelsea are serious contenders. We joke about them, but with players like Cole Palmer—my favourite in the league—they’re building something.”
He called for Arsenal to take Chelsea more seriously as direct competition, especially when it comes to handing them large amounts of money in the transfer market.
The Signings That Would Excite Arsenal Fans
Gordon Smart, the podcast’s co-host, asked Beya which signings would truly get him optimistic about the season ahead.
His answer? “Rodrygo, hands down.”
Beya even joked that landing the Real Madrid star could save Mikel Arteta’s job.
With Arsenal already reportedly linked to Viktor Gyökeres, he sees Rodrygo as the final piece of the puzzle.
Liverpool’s Transfer Tactics Highlight Arsenal’s Shortcomings
When talk shifted to Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak, Beya pointed out the difference in how the two clubs operate.
He believes Liverpool have a much more coordinated transfer strategy—one that players are naturally drawn to.
“If I’m looking in from the outside, Liverpool just looks so put together,” he said.
“They know what they need, and they go for it. Arsenal? We’ve been rebuilding forever.”
Final Thoughts and Where to Hear More
As Arsenal look ahead to the new season, the Madueke saga raises important questions—about spending, scouting, and fan behaviour.
Can Madueke win over the doubters?
That remains to be seen.
But one thing’s for sure—he deserves a chance to prove himself without being torn down before even pulling on the jersey.
To hear the full chat, including a cheeky moment where Mark Clattenburg calls Roy Keane a “big baby”, just search for Whistleblowers wherever you get your podcasts.