Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that England winger Noni Madueke made the personal decision to leave Stamford Bridge amid his imminent transfer to Arsenal.
The 22-year-old winger is on the verge of completing a move to the North London club after both Premier League rivals agreed on a transfer fee of approximately £52 million.
Speaking about the transfer, Maresca emphasized that Madueke was not forced out of Chelsea, stating: "If a player wants to leave, then in the end it is difficult for the club and manager. And yes, Noni decided to leave."
The Chelsea boss further clarified the situation, adding: "No one said to Noni he has to leave. It was his own decision. If he is happy, we are happy."
According to reports, Madueke has already traveled to the UK where he will undergo medical examinations with Arsenal before finalizing the transfer. The move represents one of the more significant deals between the London rivals in recent years.
The transfer comes as Arsenal look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Madueke expected to provide competition on the flanks for Mikel Arteta's side.
Madueke joined Chelsea in January 2023 from PSV Eindhoven but has struggled to secure a consistent starting position during his time at Stamford Bridge. The move to Arsenal could provide the young winger with a fresh opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter in the Premier League.
This transfer continues Chelsea's active summer window, with the club already seeing several players depart as they reshape their squad under Maresca's guidance.
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