Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has singled out Chelsea’s Noni Madueke as one of the most challenging opponents he has encountered throughout his career.
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The 21-year-old left-back, who has earned seven caps for Spain, faced Madueke during their youth football days and has fond memories of their matchups, labeling the winger as a ‘good player.’
Madueke, now 22, has been a standout performer for Chelsea this season under manager Enzo Maresca, contributing five goals in 10 appearances across all competitions.
Chelsea secured Madueke’s services in January 2023, signing him to a seven-and-a-half-year deal for approximately £28.5 million from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven.
Since joining the Blues, he has made 56 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing three assists.
Reflecting on his past encounters with Madueke, Balde remarked, “Another could be when I was in youth football against Madueke, who’s at Chelsea now. He’s a good player; I think he was at PSV then, and it was another good game.”
Madueke’s form has not gone unnoticed, with football pundit Jamie O’Hara suggesting that he could soon challenge Arsenal star Bukayo Saka for a position in England’s starting lineup.
Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, O’Hara praised Madueke’s direct style, stating, “He’s really stepped it up this season, and I like the way he’s so direct, always wanting the ball and making things happen. I think Madueke could be a real game-changer for England.”
Following Chelsea’s recent 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League, former Arsenal player Alan Smith described Madueke as an ‘automatic pick’ for the Blues.
On Sky Sports, Smith stated, “Madueke is almost an automatic pick these days. He’s got the confidence, the trust of his manager, and he’s shown a consistency of performance.”
As both players continue to shine in their respective roles, fans can look forward to their future contributions on the pitch.