Arsenal Star Labelled a ‘Flop’ by Media After Lille Performance

According to a report by Football London on Wednesday October 14, 2026, Arsenal secured a convincing 3-0 Champions League victory over Lille, but two players faced criticism from French media. Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres received disappointing ratings despite their team’s impressive performance.

Madueke started on the right wing ahead of Bukayo Saka and assisted Jurrien Timber’s opening goal. However, his inconsistent crossing and technical mistakes attracted criticism, despite contributing to Arsenal’s breakthrough.

Get French Football News awarded Madueke 4/10, arguing that he failed to justify Mikel Arteta’s decision to select him ahead of Saka. The publication highlighted his missed crosses and limited attacking influence.

The outlet wrote: “The English winger was given the nod ahead of Bukayo Saka, and he barely repaid Mikel Arteta’s faith in him as he missed most of his crosses.”

Maxi Foot gave Madueke 5.5/10, acknowledging his dangerous runs while criticising his final delivery. The publication noted that the former Chelsea winger frequently lost possession through avoidable technical errors.

It explained: “His driving runs caused problems for Perraud and allowed him to make a real impact. However, when it came to the final action, the former Chelsea talent was error-prone.”

So Foot was harsher, awarding Madueke 4/10 and labelling him a ‘flop’. His replacement, Saka, subsequently scored and assisted as Arsenal scored three second-half goals to complete their victory.

Gyokeres also endured a difficult evening after starting ahead of Kai Havertz. The Swedish striker struggled against Lille’s organised defence, failing to create significant danger while losing several important physical battles.

Foot Mercato awarded the centre-forward 4/10, highlighting his struggles against Lille’s defensive organisation. The publication noted that he lost a crucial duel against Nabil Bentaleb during the first half.

Maxi Foot similarly rated Gyokeres 4/10, arguing that limited service and tight marking prevented him from influencing proceedings. So Foot gave him 2/10, also describing him as an Arsenal ‘flop’.

Despite those individual disappointments, Arsenal’s substitutes helped transform the contest after halftime. Timber, Eberechi Eze and Saka scored to secure an important European victory for Arteta’s side.

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