Arsenal, after having a great start to the season thanks to their productive summer transfer window, can now recuperate with the international break coming up. However, for the boss Mikel Arteta, there’s no time to rest. In fact, he has a big decision to make, and that involves Nicolas Pepe.
The player who was signed by Arsenal for £72m (their record transfer at the time), is due a move away. His time at the Emirates Stadium hasn’t been a positive one, despite how hard Unai Emery and Mikel Arteta tried to make him fit into the squad.
In truth, to describe Pepe as awful would be nonsensical. He was a good player, and had many bright moments in an Arsenal shirt. However, given how much he cost and what he was brought to the club to do, it was an overall poor signing.
Therefore, Mikel Arteta has considered terminating his contract. His current deal keeps him at the Emirates Stadium until the end of the season. But with no use for Pepe and the player eating valuable wage resources, it’s best for all parties that he moves to another club.
Nicolas Pepe is “set to join” Besiktas from Arsenal
According to a new update from 90min, Nicolas Pepe is “set to join” Besiktas on a permanent deal, with the Turkish transfer window open for over a week. The report understands that Pepe is still one of Arsenal’s highest earners as he’s on around £250,000 per week. To pay a player this huge fee without him having any impact on the team is detrimental, hence Arteta’s decision to dispose.
Pepe is a great player and it’s a shame it didn’t work out for him in North London. Although, this cut-throat decision from Arteta is one which I think will be welcomed by the supporters. It’s time to move on.
What was your favourite Nicolas Pepe memory in an Arsenal jersey?