Arsenal record signing Nicolas Pepe has revealed that he felt immense pressure to perform at the club and hopes to build on his match-winning performance on Thursday.
Pepe was the man of the match in the Europa League victory against Vitoria Guimares netting two amazing freekicks in the game. The winger who has struggled from open play this season was able to be the main man for the Gunners when they needed him on Thursday.
After the game Pepe spoke to reporters and admitted that he felt the pressure to hit the ground running after making the move in the summer.
“Of course [I knew it would be harder],” said Pepe. “It is a league totally different to Ligue 1, with a different intensity.
Pepe was a second-half substitute for Alexandre Lacazette with the home team trailing 2-1 before enjoying a successful cameo netting twice in the final 10 minutes. The Ivorian was impressive with his ball movement and dribbling skills.
Arsenal fans have been patient with the winger and would be delighted with the performance on Thursday from their new man. Arsenal after the victory sit top of Group F with three victories from three games and look certain of securing a passage to the knockout phase.
Attentions now turn to the important EPL game at home to Crystal Palace on Sunday as they look to recover from the setback of Monday’s defeat at Sheffield United.
