Chelsea winger Noni Madueke has opened up about the ongoing comparisons with Bukayo Saka, clarifying that he doesn’t view the Arsenal star as direct competition for a starting spot in the England squad. Instead, Madueke sees Saka as a teammate whose success motivates him to improve his own game. The 22-year-old emphasized that his focus is on consistent performance and contributing to the team, leaving selection decisions up to the coach.
Madueke, who made his England debut in September during a Nations League match against Finland, has since earned two more caps, showcasing his potential at the international level. In his debut, he made an immediate impact, assisting Harry Kane for one of the goals. More recently, he started for England in their 3-0 win over Greece, providing an assist for Ollie Watkins’ opener. His performances in the national team setup have been a testament to his growing confidence.
Despite some recent criticism regarding his behavior after being substituted in Chelsea’s match against Arsenal, Madueke has explained the situation, helping to move past the controversy and refocus on his performances on the pitch. His actions, however, haven’t overshadowed his talents, with his international appearances continuing to highlight his skill and value to the squad.
Under interim coach Lee Carsley, Madueke’s inclusion in the England squad has underscored his potential. Although England boasts a wealth of talented wide players, Madueke remains humble and focused on his development, stating that he aims to deliver at a high level each time he steps onto the field.
Reflecting on his recent performances, Madueke shared, “I feel like I did my job. I created the first goal and was a consistent threat until I came off. That’s the level I aim to deliver every time I play.” His mindset shows a young player dedicated to growth and making a lasting impact for both Chelsea and the national team.