Madueke, Arsenal and the difference between in-stadium and online noise.
Also a look at Wenger's inevitable take on the Club World Cup
All views are equal but some are less equal than others. That was my immediate reaction when considering the views of those with Arsenal connections on Noni Madueke and also Fifa’s defence of its Club World Cup. How much does critical reaction to Madueke truly reflect views of those who will pay to enter the Emirates to watch him? How much weight do Arsene Wenger’s views carry on the Fifa Club World Cup breathlessly promoted by his employers?
Madueke first. Arsenal’s pursuit of the Chelsea winger, and imminent recruitment, has upset a section of their fanbase. A petition has even been set up demanding the club desist. Fans have every right to voice opinion over every issue pertaining to their club; without them, the club doesn’t exist. But those petty petitioners, the Noni knockers, the critics raging on social media, have also upset others who attend games.
The petition comes across as self-entitled and criticism as unfair, premature denigration. What message does it send out to Madueke? To others considering joining? To rival fans gifted ammunition to use against Madueke? Yet anyone with even a cursory familiarity with Arsenal’s match-day crowd will know the petition does not reflect the view of the majority. Arsenal fans are a welcoming bunch, even to those they may not be convinced about. Once again, there’s a difference in opinion between those inside the Emirates and those outside, pontificating on social media. Once again, the club ignores external noise, trusting its data and scouting expertise.