Noni Madueke is set to link up with the Arsenal squad later today, after cutting his holiday short and returning to training last week.
The 23-year-old winger reported back to London Colney ahead of schedulehaving taken just a brief break following his involvement at the Club World Cup with Chelsea earlier this summer.
Madueke joined Arsenal in July in a deal worth up to £52 million, and although he was keen to be involved in the pre-season tour of Asia, the club advised him to rest.
While Mikel Arteta confirmed last month that Madueke would take a short vacation, the player opted to return to training early and worked individually with his coach, Saul Isaksson-Hurst.
He resumed work at Arsenal’s training ground last week, several days before the rest of the squad reconvened following their return from Hong Kong.
The Gunners returned from their pre-season tour of Asia, with players granted a few days off ahead of Monday’s training session.
Madueke is now expected to formally rejoin the group later today as preparations continue for the final two pre-season friendlies.
Arsenal are scheduled to face Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, 6th August, before taking on Athletic Club on Friday, 9th August.
Madueke will hope to make his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt during one of those fixtures, with the club’s Premier League campaign set to begin on 17th August away to Manchester United.
His arrival in North London was met with some scepticism from supporters, with a minority even launching a petition criticising the move.
However, the Barnet-born winger is focused on proving himself on the pitch and giving Arteta another option out wide.
He played primarily on the right flank at Chelsea but is also comfortable operating from the left, as shown in his recent outings for England.
The early return underlines his intent to settle quickly and earn a place in the starting eleven ahead of the new season.
Arsenal pursued the signing to boost depth in wide areas and increase attacking competition, particularly with Champions League football back on the agenda.
Madueke’s reintegration this week gives him a timely opportunity to adapt before the competitive action begins.
