Noni Madueke explains Bukayo Saka rivalry at Arsenal and England

Noni Madueke has insisted his close friendship with Bukayo Saka has not been affected by their battle for the same position at both Arsenal and England.

The two wingers are competing for the right-sided attacking role under Mikel Arteta at club level and Thomas Tuchel on the international stage, creating one of England's most intriguing selection dilemmas during the World Cup.

While Madueke started England's opening two group matches as Saka recovered from an Achilles problem, the Arsenal winger returned to the starting line-up for the victory over Panama and is expected to retain his place for the knockout rounds.

Despite competing directly for minutes, Madueke says there has never been any tension between the pair.

Speaking ahead of England's Round of 32 meeting with DR Congo, the Arsenal winger admitted many people expect the situation to create awkwardness, but insists their friendship remains unchanged.

"Obviously, it is well-documented that we're very close. So normally it should be a little bit strange. But it's not."

Madueke explained that both players continue supporting each other regardless of who starts.

"I feel like it doesn't really affect our relationship whatsoever. I feel like we want the best for each other when each other plays because, at the end of the day, that means that if he plays well, I play well, and England and Arsenal have better chances of winning."

Madueke also highlighted what he believes separates his game from Saka's.

Rather than viewing themselves as identical players, the England international believes each offers different strengths depending on the opposition.

"In terms of how we differ, I think I thrive in space and he thrives in congestion."

That distinction could become particularly relevant during England's World Cup campaign.

Opponents sitting deep have caused England problems throughout the tournament, making Saka's ability to operate in crowded areas especially valuable against compact defensive systems.

Arteta has often benefited from having attackers with contrasting qualities rather than players offering identical skill sets. Madueke's direct running and pace complement Saka's close control and creativity in tight spaces, giving both Arsenal and England tactical flexibility depending on the demands of each match. However, selection decisions are likely to continue changing throughout a long season.

England progressed through the group stage but found it difficult at times to break down organised defences against both Ghana and Panama.

Madueke believes those challenges are becoming increasingly common in international football rather than being unique to England.

"I feel like it is not just us. Every team has difficulties with the opposition sitting back. It is not easy to break down."

He added: "I think we've seen other top nations struggle as well."

With DR Congo expected to adopt a similarly cautious approach in the knockout stages, Tuchel faces another important decision over whether to continue with Saka or recall Madueke to the starting XI.

England's knockout clash with DR Congo could provide another opportunity for Thomas Tuchel to rotate his attacking options depending on the tactical challenge presented by the opposition. The competition between Saka and Madueke is also likely to continue into the Premier League season as both players compete for regular starts at Arsenal.

Who should start on England's right wing for the knockout stages: Bukayo Saka or Noni Madueke?