Nicolas Pepe took his tally for the 2022-23 campaign on Thursday night to five goals for OGC Nice having joined the Ligue 1 side on loan from Arsenal in the summer – but French media have still criticised the star, earning a rating of 7.
Pepe, 27, left Arsenal in the summer on loan. Another case of Mikel Arteta deciding that he does not like the attitude of a specific player and getting rid. Mesut Ozil, Matteo Guendouzi and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are examples.
But since joining Nice, he is rediscovering his goalscoring touch. Coming into the match, he had four goals. He earned his 11th start on Thursday night, scoring his fifth goal – eventually being replaced on 89 minutes. His form is returning.
However, despite scoring in the 2-1 win – which has seen Nice edge closer towards qualification for the knockout stages of the competition – Maxi Foot were still critical. They say that he became somewhat “discreet” in the second 45.
“Man of the moment has struck again. While Nice were humming, Pépé appeared out of nowhere to score. He could have claimed man of the match, but he was too discreet in the second half. Replaced in the 89th minute by Mattia Viti.”
On-loan Arsenal star Pepe criticised by French media
Ultimately, if Pepe still harbours ambition of breaking back into Arteta’s plans, he needs to do something to catch the attention of the Gunners gaffer, he needs to score goals. He is doing that in a Nice shirt, with five to his name so far.
If he continues at this rate, there is no reason why he cannot reach a level of 15 or 20 goals. He may also benefit from the Ivory Coast failing to qualify for the World Cup – giving him a rest. Does such a tally convince Arteta?
Probably not. But what it does do, is give Pepe a chance to at least be considered by Arteta. If not, it finally gives him interest in his services. Clubs will be much more willing to risk their cash in the winger, as he continues to impress.
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