Nicolas Pepe joined Arsenal from Nice in 2019 for a then-club-record £72m.
Big things were expected of the Ivorian but his time at Arsenal really did not go to plan.
Mikel Arteta failed to get the best out of him and loan moves also did not help the player.
In turn, Arsenal opted to terminate Pepe’s contract over the summer.
And now, Mikel Arteta has been discussing the decision to terminate Pepe’s deal:
“I wasn’t involved in the process of that deal,” said Arteta. “But what I can say is that he was a phenomenal boy who tried really hard and tried his best so it’s not his fault the amount of money we paid at the time.
Asked if he was sad that Pepe’s time at Arsenal never worked out, Arteta said: “Yes, but obviously there are moments for players.
“Not only for him but for Rob leaving and the others who have left on loan.
“You have an emotional attachment with them and you have tried to get the best out of them, but there are periods and sometimes you can love the player but there is a player who plays in this position as well who does so well.
“There are many factors but we certainly wish them the very best and hopefully they can fulfill their dreams somewhere else.”
Everton vs Arsenal betting tips: Premier League preview, predictions, team news and odds
Sevilla vs Las Palmas betting tips: La Liga preview, predictions and odds
