Noni Madueke rubbing shoulders with Man City and Real Madrid stars in key metric

Only Kylian Mbappe boasted a higher statistic than Arsenal's Noni Madueke following the first round of Champions League fixtures.

Bukayo Saka has been sidelined for Arsenal since the 5-0 win over Leeds United, a game which saw new signing Viktor Gyokeres open his account with the Gunners.

While his absence has been a huge blow for Mikel Arteta, it has given Madueke the chance to shine at Arsenal, with the 23-year-old also proving himself on the international stage with England.

He failed to score against Nottingham Forest or Athletic Club, but despite that, supporters have been massively impressed by the winger's mindset since being thrown into the lineup.

Only Kylian Mbappe bettered Noni Madueke in impressive stat

According to Squawka, during the Gunners' 2-0 win over Athletic Club on Tuesday, 16 September, Madueke had 11 touches inside the opposition's penalty area.

Kylian Mbappe was well ahead of the pack on 17, given that he scored twice from the penalty spot against Marseille on the same night as Arsenal's win.

Jeremy Doku was slammed by Man City fans, but with his magnificent goal against Napoli, he silenced his critics while also having the same number of touches in the penalty area, and so too Franco Mastantuono.

Madueke's arrival was massively questioned by Arsenal fans, but since being given a chance by Arteta, albeit he had no other choice, he has managed to win over most of his doubters.

Mikel Arteta has a major headache once Bukayo Saka returns

If Saka is still on the right path to recovery, he should return in time for the Gunners' Champions League clash against Olympiacos on Wednesday, 1 October, but that could be a risk from the manager.

Arteta has more than enough talent within his squad to face the Greek side without his star winger, and with West Ham up next after that, it provides the 24-year-old with the perfect chance to return.

With 12 goals and 13 assists in 37 appearances, there are few players in the Premier League who can have the same impact from the right flank, which is why it is more important that his return is not rushed.

Gyokeres, however, will be excited about the thought of having his attacking partner back.