Who were the alternatives to Noni Madueke for Arsenal

The author argues that Arsenal urgently needs to recruit cover for Bukayo Saka on the right wing. They point out that Saka has been consistently overplayed for years, and previous backup options like Nicolas Pepe (who only lasted one season as cover), Reiss Nelson, Raheem Sterling, and Marquinhos have been inadequate or failed, as evidenced by the significant disparity in their playing minutes compared to Saka across multiple seasons.

While acknowledging the potential of young player Ethan Nwaneri, the author strongly doubts manager Mikel Arteta views him as Saka's primary backup. They believe Nwaneri will likely be developed centrally to cover Martin Odegaard instead. The author contends that asking the 18-year-old Nwaneri to cover both positions would be too demanding and potentially detrimental to his development into a world-class player in a single position.

The author concludes that recruiting a new right winger is essential. They acknowledge an alternative viewpoint suggesting that signing players like Rodrygo and Eze, combined with Gabriel Martinelli and Nwaneri, could provide sufficient cover, but note this depends on Martinelli staying at the club. The piece ends by questioning what other options Arsenal has if they decide against signing Noni Madueke.