Ex-Arsenal Ivorian backs Gunners in title race, despite tough time he had at Emirates
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 25.04.26. | 15:52
"I think Arsenal will end up champions, but really, it's a pity losing to City"
In August 2019, Nicolas Pepe joined Arsenal as the club's record signing, for whom the Gunners paid €80 million to Lille. However, this cooperation was beneficial neither for the London side nor for the player.
The forward spent three seasons at the Emirates Stadium, played 112 games and recorded 27 goals and 21 assists, but the impression is that he never met the immense expectations. The sum Arsenal splashed out for his arrival was a burden that Pepe couldn't cope with.
Ever since he left North London to join Turkish club Trabzonspor, the Ivorian has often spoken about his spell with Arsenal, pointing out what a tough time he had in England.
However, in an interview with Flashscore, the current Villarreal forward commented on the wild Premier League title race between his former club and Manchester City, and despite all the troubles he experienced in London, he backed the Gunners, but also highlighted the Cityzens' quality and the importance of their victory in last week's derby.
"Honestly, I think it will be about details. They still have the Champions League to play, so there is that to manage. City have nothing to do, I think they only have the Premier League now, so they will be focused on the Premier League."
🎙Nicolas Pépé says he believes Arsenal can win the Premier League, speaking to Flashscore.....
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) April 22, 2026
🗣"Honestly I think it will be about details. They still have the Champions League to play, so there is that to manage. City have nothing to do, I think they only have the Premier… pic.twitter.com/ShWdWUdJpl
"But it will really depend on the details because I think the difference is one goal. I think Arsenal will end up champions, but really, it's a pity losing to City," Pepe said.
The EPL race continues today for the Gunners, as they'll host Newcastle in one of the last five crucial games. Now that they are tied in points with City, the goal difference can be the key. Hence, not only is it important to win, but also to do it convincingly.
Mikel Arteta's men haven't been able to achieve that for some time, and the duel against the Magpies will show if they are capable of bouncing back and re-taking the Premier League pole position.
PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 34
Friday
Sunderland - Nott. Forest 0-5 (0-4)
/Hume 17 og, Wood 31, Gibbs-White 34, Jesus 37, Anderson 90+5/
Saturday
Fulham - Aston Villa IN PROGRESS
17.00: (1.50) Liverpool (4.80) Crystal Palace (6.40)
17.00: (2.45) West Ham (3.45) Everton (3.05)
17.00: (4.30) Wolverhampton (4.10) Tottenham (1.75)
19.30: (1.50) Arsenal (4.30) Newcastle (6.50)
Monday
22.00: (1.90) Man.Utd. (3.85) Brentford (3.80)
***odds are subject to change***