Noni Madueke has responded to criticism after Arsenal's Champions League final defeat, taking to Instagram to celebrate the Premier League title triumph. The forward, who came on as a substitute in the final against Paris Saint-Germain, was among those criticised for not stepping up in the penalty shootout, which the Gunners lost 4-2.
Madueke posted a picture of himself and Declan Rice with the Premier League trophy, writing: 'Champions! Whilst others are tweeting and posting. Thank you God. The glory is yours!' The post appeared to reference those who had questioned his absence from the list of five penalty takers, which included defender Gabriel Magalhaes, who missed his spot kick.
Declan Rice, who scored his penalty in the shootout, commented on Madueke's post with 'Jealously everywhere' and four laughing emojis. Speaking during the victory parade through North London on Sunday, the England midfielder warned Arsenal's rivals: 'They laughed. They are not laughing anymore. Next year we are coming back for more. Lock in or get locked out.'
Arsenal ended a 22-year wait for the Premier League title but fell just short of the Champions League, losing to holders PSG. Mikel Arteta addressed fans at the parade, saying: 'On behalf of the team, this is just amazing to witness. You have created this. This is your moment to make sure that we all enjoy it together.'
The Gunners now turn their attention to the Community Shield against Manchester City on August 16, where they can add another trophy to their cabinet. Rice added after the final: 'We are going to use this moment to add fuel to the upcoming seasons. Next season we are going to go even stronger.'
