Nicolas Pepe reveals the shocking thing that Mikel Arteta told him

Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe has recently addressed the rumors surrounding his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta, revealing that there was no falling out between the two. Despite reports suggesting otherwise, Pepe clarified that Arteta had always believed in his potential and had been instrumental in his development as a player.

The 28-year-old Ivorian international was loaned to French Ligue 1 side Nice for the 2020-2021 season. During his time there, Pepe managed to score only six goals, which led to speculation about his future at Arsenal. However, he has now returned to the Gunners and is determined to prove himself under Arteta’s guidance.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 24: Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-1 during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Emirates Stadium on February 24, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)

In a recent interview with Colinterview, Pepe spoke candidly about his relationship with Arteta and how the manager had supported him throughout. He dismissed claims that Arteta did not consider him up to par with his team’s philosophy, stating that it was completely false.

Pepe revealed that when Arteta arrived at Arsenal, he brought with him Manchester City’s philosophy and had a squad filled with quality players in every position. Despite this, Arteta assured Pepe that he counted on him and wanted him to excel on the pitch. The manager provided constant guidance and support, even going as far as watching videos with his assistants to help improve Pepe’s game which might be shocking for some.

“He really believed in me,” Pepe said of Arteta. “He said I had incredible potential, so we need to extract that potential.” These words from the manager motivated Pepe and made him realize that he needed to focus on fulfilling his true potential.

Pepe’s loan spell at Nice may not have yielded the desired results in terms of goalscoring, but it provided him with valuable experience and an opportunity for growth. Now back at Arsenal, he is determined to prove himself and repay Arteta’s faith in him.

Pepe is expected to have an explosive season(Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

However, despite Pepe’s positive words about his relationship with Arteta, there are still doubts surrounding his future at Arsenal. The club may consider selling him this summer, especially if they receive a suitable offer.

For now, Pepe remains focused on improving as a player and contributing to Arsenal’s success. He is determined to showcase his true potential and prove that he can be a valuable asset to the team.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Nicolas Pepe as he aims to silence his critics and make a lasting impact at Arsenal. With Arteta’s support and belief in him, Pepe has the opportunity to prove that he is indeed up to the level required by the Gunners’ philosophy.