Rio Ferdinand has slammed Arsenal fans over Noni Madueke backlash Former Manchester United captain and football pundit, Rio Ferdinand, has spoken out strongly in defence of Noni Madueke. In a passionate and emotional post shared across his verified social media platforms, Ferdinand condemned the abuse and backlash directed at Madueke by a section of the Arsenal fanbase, describing it as “bullying, embarrassing and an utter disgrace.” The 23-year-old England international reportedly close to sealing a blockbuster £55 million move from Chelsea to Arsenal. What Ferdinand said Reacting to widespread criticism from some Arsenal fans who have launched a petition calling on the club not to proceed with the transfer, Ferdinand urged supporters to show empathy and respect to the young player, who is on the verge of the biggest moment in his career. “For a young 23-year-old English footballer to be vilified, bullied, embarrassed, and totally stripped down at a time when you’re meant to be celebrating a transfer worth £55 million… it’s an utter disgrace,” Ferdinand wrote. He added,“Just put yourself in his shoes for one minute, just put yourself in his parents' shoes for one minute, and think of how that feeling must be.” The Chelsea winger, born in Barnet to Nigerian parents, is reportedly on the brink of a shock move to London rivals Arsenal, but the proposed deal has met stiff resistance from some Gunners supporters. Critics argue that the player has not yet lived up to expectations at Chelsea, with some citing his injury record and inconsistency. However, Ferdinand believes the public backlash, especially in the form of an online petition against Madueke’s signing, is deeply damaging, especially for a player so young. “At a time as a player, as a human, as a family, you should be celebrating. I just hope the people that are closest to him are around him and supporting him in the way that he needs right now,” added. Madueke recorded 13 goals, five assists in 67 appearances for Chelsea in the Premier League.