Arsenal star Nicolas Pepe has fueled speculation he could leave the club this summer by admitting he will ‘see what happens’ at the end of the season.
Nicolas Pepe has lifted the lid on his time at Arsenal but, in doing so, the winger has casted doubt over his future in north. (image: Getty Images)
Pepe has fallen right to the periphery of the Gunners squad. He has only made five starts in the Premier League this term.
The Ivory Coast winger arrived at Arsenal from Lille for a club record fee of £72million three years ago but he’s underwhelmed at the Emirates.
Pepe has made just fifteen Premier League appearances this term, and only starting just five of them.(Getty Images)
However, after Pepe’s latest admission, the winger has reignited doubt over his future at Arsenal.
In an interview following Ivory Coast’s 2-1 loss to the World champions, Pepe explained how a language barrier has stagnated his progress at London Colney.
“It is an honour to play for Ivory Coast,” he said.
“The most important thing is to enjoy your football. That is something I am able to do when I get the chance to play.“
“It is happening at international level and a bit less so at club level. It is frustrating not to play. No player enjoys not playing but I have to respect the coach’s decision.”
And the winger admits that, once the season is finished and Arsenal have a clearer picture of the future, he will sit down to discuss his own future.
“I am focused on how well we do until the end of the season and the club’s target, which is getting into the Champions League,’ said Pepe.
‘Then we will see what happens.’
Pepe’s future could hinge on whether the Gunners qualify for the Champions League this season.(Getty Images)
He has shown glimpses of his ‘outstanding‘ quality at Arsenal but this summer looks to be a crucial one for Pepe and Arsenal.
He will have two years left on his contract. So the Gunners may be wary of letting his deal run down any further before they cash in.