Pain in the Arsenal
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Arsenal must get Nicolas Pepe into inside channel

By Henry Payne

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 09: Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal celebrates after scoring their side's second goal down a TV camera during the Premier League match between Arsenal and West Bromwich Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 09, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Frank Augstein - Pool/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 09: Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal celebrates after scoring their side's second goal down a TV camera during the Premier League match between Arsenal and West Bromwich Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 09, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Frank Augstein - Pool/Getty Images) /
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Nicolas Pépé finished the season in style for Arsenal, scoring seven goals in his last seven starts. He now has to carry that scintillating form into the new campaign.

For the most part, Pépé’s Arsenal career has been inconsistent. However, there are signs that he could reach new heights and finally silence the constant talk about his transfer fee.

The Ivorian took great strides in 2020/21, especially after his petulant dismissal against Leeds United. He contributed to 21 goals (16 goals + 5 assists) in all competitions, an improvement on the 18 (8 goals + 10 assists) from his first season. There was also a noticeable change in his attitude: he was bolder in possession, used his right foot more frequently, and showed substantially improved work rate and willingness to defend.

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The challenge for Pépé is to maintain this performance level. As things stand, he is one of the first names on the team sheet, but Mikel Arteta can get even more production from his talented forward.

Whether the Arsenal manager persists with the 4-2-3-1 or changes to the 4-3-3, getting Pépé into central areas against lower defensive blocks must be a priority.

During his time at Lille, Pépé dazzled under the management of Christophe Galtier. He was given a licence to roam and influenced games in a variety of ways.

He often appeared in the central and inside channels, receiving passes between the lines before linking with others or carrying the ball himself. His technical quality, imagination, and intelligence were clear for all to see.

Since moving to the Premier League, Pépé has spent more time near the touchline. However, an improved starting position played a huge part in his late-season form. It allowed him to be both a creative force and a ruthless goalscorer.

Next. Ben White Transfer Development Enters Dangerous Territory. dark

Nicolas Pépé is a quality – albeit slightly odd – player. Given the freedom to roam further infield, he could wreak havoc.

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