Steven Gerrard Criticises Noni Madueke After Costly Set-Piece Error in Champions League

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes Noni Madueke's wayward corner during Arsenal's UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain would have left manager Mikel Arteta deeply frustrated.

Arsenal's set-piece prowess had been one of the major talking points throughout their impressive campaign, with dead-ball situations playing a crucial role in both their Premier League title success and their run to the Champions League final in Budapest.

However, one of the most promising opportunities of the night ended in disappointment as Madueke failed to capitalise on a potentially decisive moment during extra time.

Missed Opportunity Leaves Arsenal Frustrated

After a tense and closely contested encounter, Arsenal earned a corner during extra time, prompting excitement among the travelling supporters who had witnessed the Gunners regularly threaten from set-piece situations throughout the season.

Instead of delivering a dangerous ball into the penalty area, Madueke's corner curled harmlessly out of play without even reaching the near post.

The poor delivery immediately drew criticism from those covering the match.

Commentating on the final at the Puskás Aréna, Gerrard expressed his disbelief at the wasted opportunity.

“You would be tearing your hair out if you were Mikel Arteta,” Gerrard said.

“What a waste of an opportunity.”

Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist shared a similar view, adding:

“I cannot believe he has done that.”

Television cameras quickly focused on Arteta and Arsenal set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, both of whom appeared visibly frustrated by the outcome.

Penalty Appeal Adds to Arsenal's Frustration

Madueke was involved in another key moment later in the match when he drove forward down the left flank and became entangled with Paris Saint-Germain defender Nuno Mendes inside the penalty area.

Several Arsenal players immediately appealed for a penalty, believing there had been sufficient contact to warrant a spot-kick.

Declan Rice was among the most vocal protesters and was shown a yellow card for dissent after confronting the match officials.

Arteta also received a booking from the referee as frustrations mounted on the Arsenal bench.

Despite the protests, neither the on-field officials nor the Video Assistant Referee deemed the incident worthy of a penalty award.

Gerrard, McCoist and former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere all acknowledged that similar incidents have resulted in penalties being awarded in the past. However, they agreed that the challenge did not constitute a “clear and obvious error” that would justify VAR intervention.

Madueke's First Season at Arsenal

Madueke began the Champions League final on the bench, with Arteta opting for an attacking trio of Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka from the start.

The England international was introduced in the 83rd minute as Arsenal searched for a breakthrough against the French champions.

Despite the disappointment of the final, Madueke has enjoyed a productive first season since joining Arsenal from Chelsea in a deal worth £48.5 million last summer.

The winger contributed eight goals and four assists across all competitions during his debut campaign and also played a valuable role in Arsenal's Champions League journey, registering three goals and one assist.

While Arsenal ultimately fell short in their pursuit of European glory, Madueke remains an important part of Arteta's long-term plans as the club looks to build on an otherwise highly successful season.