Nicolas Pepe, once Arsenal’s record signing, is currently without a club. The Ivorian winger, who joined the Gunners in 2019 for a substantial £72 million from Lille, left the club in 2023 under the heavy shadow of being labeled a ‘flop’. Now, at 29, Pepe looks back on his time at Arsenal with mixed feelings and hopes for a promising future.

The Weight of Expectations

Pepe’s transfer to Arsenal brought enormous expectations. “It wasn’t easy at all. And the fans weren’t happy with how I was performing,” Pepe shared with BBC Sport. He believes that the scrutiny he faced was more about his price tag than his actual contributions. “When I first joined, the fans weren’t really judging my performances. They were judging the price tag,” he explained.

Despite the criticism, Pepe remains proud of his achievements during his time at Arsenal. “I think I did some great things while at Arsenal. I don’t regret my time there,” he said. Over two seasons, Pepe scored 24 goals and provided 15 assists in 91 matches. He suggests that perceptions might have been different if his transfer fee had been lower. “If Arsenal bought me for £20m, maybe it’d be different,” Pepe remarked.

Respect for Mikel Arteta

Pepe holds a respectful view of Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, despite not being a central part of his plans. “I have always had a great relationship with Arteta. It’s just that he didn’t have full confidence in me, which is a shame,” Pepe said. He acknowledged Arteta’s success in building a competitive team. “He put together a winning team, and sadly, I wasn’t in that player turnover. But he’s someone I respect, and I know he respects me too. And I wish him all the best,” he added.

Future Aspirations

Looking forward, Pepe remains hopeful about his next move in football. He is optimistic about finding a new club soon and hasn’t dismissed the possibility of returning to English football. “I definitely learnt a lot,” he reflected. “Yes, of course, I’m the same player. I’m just getting older, which is normal, but I’m still the same player.”

Pepe’s journey underscores the challenges that come with high expectations and the resilience required to navigate a career in professional football. As he looks to the future, Pepe remains focused on proving his worth and making a significant impact wherever he goes next.

Pepe’s Arsenal Career: A Closer Look

During his tenure at Arsenal, Pepe faced the dual challenge of living up to his hefty price tag while adapting to the high-paced, physical nature of the Premier League. Despite these challenges, he showcased moments of brilliance that highlighted his potential. His 24 goals and 15 assists in 91 matches demonstrate his capability to contribute significantly to the team.

However, the constant pressure to justify his transfer fee often overshadowed these contributions. “If Arsenal bought me for £20m, maybe it’d be different,” Pepe said, reflecting on how a lower transfer fee might have altered fans’ perceptions and allowed him to play with less pressure.

The Role of Mental Strength in Football

Pepe’s experience at Arsenal highlights the mental challenges professional athletes face, particularly when dealing with high expectations and public scrutiny. His ability to maintain a positive outlook and continue striving for excellence despite the criticism speaks volumes about his mental resilience.

“I definitely learnt a lot,” he said. This learning experience, while tough, has likely made Pepe a stronger and more mentally prepared player for future challenges. His reflections on his time at Arsenal indicate a player who has grown not only in skill but also in mental fortitude.

Looking Ahead: Potential Destinations

As Pepe navigates his next steps in professional football, several factors will likely influence his decision. His preference for a club where he can play a significant role and continue developing as a player will be paramount. Additionally, the potential for a return to the Premier League remains open, given his desire to prove himself in English football.

Clubs looking for a winger with proven abilities in top European leagues might find Pepe an attractive option. His experience at Arsenal, combined with his undeniable talent, makes him a valuable asset for any team willing to give him the opportunity to shine.

Conclusion

Nicolas Pepe’s journey from being Arsenal’s record signing to a free agent reflects the volatile nature of professional football. His time at Arsenal, marked by high expectations and mixed results, has been a significant learning experience. As he looks to the future, Pepe’s focus is on finding a club where he can continue to grow and prove his worth.

With his talent, experience, and newfound mental resilience, Pepe is well-equipped to make a significant impact wherever he goes next. His story is a reminder of the challenges athletes face and the importance of perseverance and mental strength in achieving long-term success in sports.

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