Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas believes that enough is enough with Nicolas Pepe and that he should be dropped.
Pepe was the big money signing made this summer by former manager Unai Emery. At 80 million Euros, the bulk of Arsenal’s budget was spent on the then Lille forward.
However, the Ivory Coast international has struggled since his arrival in North London. His manager has however called for patience as others are not willing to afford him that luxury.
Arsenal is in favorable yet still not definite position against Olympiakos in the Europa League. Domestically, they are out of all the cup competitions but are ninth in the league and still in with a shout of a European spot this season.
Former Arsenal forward, Charlie Nicholas feels there is just too much at stake for Arsenal to wait for Pepe to deliver.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Nicholas believes its time to give someone else a chance.
He said, “I do not think anything is certain for Arsenal. Will Nicolas Pepe get another run?”
“Does he deserve it” Probably not. I would probably look at Gabriel Martinelli.”
“Pepe arrived with a great reputation but has struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League.”
Mikel Arteta urged to drop Pepe
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s boss, Arteta has been urged to drop Pepe for the crunch Europa League clash with Olympiakos on Thursday night.
The Gunners held a slender 1-0 lead over their Greek counterparts going into the second leg of their last-32 tie at the Emirates.
With Arsenal ninth in the Premier League, the European competition represents arguably the best chances for Arteta’s side to secure Champions League football next season.
Besides, Charlie Nicholas has predicted how Arteta should line up for the counter believing the Gunners can follow up on their recent 3-2 win over Everton.
But, the Pundit reckons Pepe as he claims he (Pepe) should be dropped.
He said, “I do not think this is a certain win for Arsenal.”
“Mikel Arteta will sit and read into the fact that they let in two against Everton. Bernd Leno gets Arsenal out of a lot of holes but he did slip up for the second goal.”
“Joe Willock and Alexandre Lacazette will come in I think. You have to keep Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in for his goals. Will Nicolas Pepe get another run? Probably. Does he deserve it? Probably not. I would probably look at Gabriel Martinelli.”