Former Arsenal star Nicolas Pepe joins La Liga club as a free agent
Former Arsenal midfielder Nicolas Pepe has joined La Liga side Villarreal as a free agent. After leaving the Gunners last summer, the 29-year-old spent a year at Trabzonspor before leaving them this summer.
Pepe had arrived at the Gunners in the summer of 2019 from Lille on a reported £72 million deal but endured a torrid stint. He contributed 27 goals and 21 assists in 112 games across competitions but struggled to become a first-team regular before leaving last summer.
His last season at the Emirates was spent on loan at Ligue 1 side Nice, contributing eight goals in 28 games across competitions. The Cote d'Ivoire international enjoyed a decent year-long stint at Trabzonspor - six goals and three assists in 23 games across competitions - before agreeing a two-year deal with Villarreal, as per GOAL.
Following his unveiling, Pepe is expected to feature in the pre-season friendlies against Borussia Dortmund (August 6) and Brighton & Hove Albion (August 10). Villarreal commence their La Liga campaign at home Atletico Madrid on August 19.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta on Emil Smith Rowe's exit
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has reacted to the exit of Emil Smith Rowe, who has agreed to join Fulham this summer. The 24-year-old contributed 18 goals and 13 assists in 115 appearances across competitions.
However, with his game time diminishing in the last few seasons, Smith Rowe opted to join the Cottagers on a five-year deal. Arteta, though, has waxed lyrical of the Englishman, telling the club's website:
“Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him. He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud.
“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly. Emile is loved by everyone at the club and leaves us with our gratitude, absolute respect and best wishes. We all wish Emile and his family well at Fulham.”
The Gunners - who are currently in pre-season - open their Premier League campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers at home on August 17.