Arteta Urged to Try Noni Madueke as Arsenal Striker Amid Gyokeres Struggles

Tony Cascarino suggests Mikel Arteta should use Noni Madueke centrally as Arsenal search for goals amid Viktor Gyokeres concerns.

Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino has urged Mikel Arteta to consider a surprise tactical switch by using Noni Madueke as Arsenal central striker, rather than persisting with an out-of-form Viktor Gyokeres.

The suggestion comes as Arsenal continue to dominate games without consistently converting chances, raising questions over their long-term solution at centre-forward.

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Madueke, signed from Chelsea for £52m last summer, has featured mainly on the right wing but has shown sharp finishing when operating closer to goal. His recent Champions League brace against Club Brugge reignited debate about his best position.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Cascarino backed the idea of a positional shift:

“I actually think Noni Madueke could play centre-forward. He’s direct, sees chances early, and has real goal instincts.”

Gyokeres Yet to Fully Deliver

Arsenal invested heavily in Viktor Gyokeres, paying a club-record £86m to sign the Swedish striker from Sporting CP. While his physical presence and link-up play have impressed, his return of six goals in 18 appearances has frustrated supporters.

Arteta has publicly urged patience, but Cascarino described Gyokeres as a “slow burner” unlikely to reach elite goal numbers this season.

Arsenal’s lack of clarity at No.9 has led to multiple experiments. Kai Havertz has filled a false-nine role, Gabriel Jesus has struggled with fitness, and even Mikel Merino has been used centrally with short-term success.

Madueke’s pace, dribbling, and shooting power could offer a different threat—particularly against deep defensive blocks where Arsenal often dominate possession without penetration.

Tactical Risks and Rewards

Deploying Madueke as a lone striker would represent a significant shift. His defensive work rate has been questioned, and Arteta would need midfield balance to protect transitions.

However, Arteta’s tactical flexibility this season suggests the idea is not unrealistic, especially with Arsenal chasing marginal gains in a tight title race.

With Arsenal sitting third in the Premier League, four points behind leaders Manchester City, the margin for error is shrinking. Goals remain the missing piece in an otherwise complete side.

Whether Arteta experiments with Madueke centrally or continues backing Gyokeres, the decision could define Arsenal’s season.

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