27-year-old Arsenal star ready to leave as he’s not in Mikel Arteta’s plans – report
Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe (on loan at OGC Nice) is reportedly ready to leave the Premier League club as he is not part of Mikel Arteta’s plans.
The 27-year-old Pepe moved down the pecking order at the Emirates early in the season. He was sent to Nice for his first team opportunity. The Ivory Coast attacker has scored eight goals and provided one assist in 24 appearances in the entire competition. According to L’Equipe, it may not be long before the former LOSC Lille forward leaves the Gunners.
Nice and Pepe have three more months to decide if they can continue their Allianz Riviera careers permanently. Ligue 1 clubs are waiting to analyze his performances for the rest of the season and make a decision on a possible full transfer.
Pepe is happy to leave arsenal, if he’s not part of Arteta’s plans. In his 112 appearances he scored 27 goals and provided 21 assists, failing to live up to his hefty price tag.
The Ivorian has a year left on his contract with the Gunners, who could benefit him in the summer. Transfermarkt values him at €22 million.
Arsenal captain Martin Audegaard praises Gabriel Jesus’ return from injury
Jesus missed three months of action after suffering a serious knee injury. 2022 FIFA World Cup To Qatar with Brazil.
He was in impressive form before his setback, scoring five goals and providing seven assists in 27 appearances across the competition this season. He made his first appearance since returning from the sideline in the match.
Gunners captain Audegaard is delighted with the return of the Brazilian, who will bring valuable experience and leadership to the team. Norwegian said (via 90 minutes):
“It’s great to be back in the team. He gives a lot in training every day. He goes out and trains like a game.”
Oudego continuation:
“It’s great to have him back because he gives everything in every situation. Of course he has leadership. He was at Manchester City and won some things there. So I can help him with his experience and energy.”
jesus arrived at arsenal city of manchester Last summer with his longtime teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko. Audegaard added that his two-man experience in winning his league title with Cityzens was very important.
“City players (Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko) bring a different mindset. They have experience and people listen to them. They are calm under pressure and can do a lot. I’ll add, the whole team helps each other, so that’s the main thing.”
Arsenal beat Crystal Palace on Sunday (19 March) to move top of the Premier League, eight points clear of City. Pep’s Guardiola-led side are out of action this weekend as they beat Burnley 6-0 in his FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday (18 March).