Arsenal already have ideal Nicolas Pepe replacement if they complete January transfer

Mikel Arteta On Martinelli And Aubameyang's Connection

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Arsenal already have the ideal replacement for Nicolas Pepe if they were to let the Ivory Coast international leave in January. Mikel Arteta claimed over the weekend that now was not the time to talk about Pepe’s future. The winger has not started a Premier League match in over a month and has made just one substitute appearance in the Gunners’ last five league outings.

Pepe started the season in Arteta’s side following his fine end to last term.

His five goals in three appearances at the end of the 2020/21 campaign ensured he was given an opportunity.

However, he has failed to take that chance and has lost his place in the side.

Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have thrived in the wide attacking areas of late.

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Saka is a doubt for the trip to Manchester United on Thursday.

However, even if Saka is unavailable, Pepe may not get the nod.

That is because of Gabriel Martinelli’s impact off the bench in the win over Newcastle last Saturday.

Arteta’s decision to bring Martinelli on for the injured Pepe speaks volumes.

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And the 20-year-old repaid his manager’s faith with a fine goal just 90 seconds after coming on.

Martinelli looked dangerous for the remainder of the match while Pepe watched on from the bench.

It was Martinelli’s first goal this season in only his sixth league appearance.

And it appears he has usurped Pepe in the pecking order at the Emirates.

Following last weekend’s win, Arteta praised the mentality of Martinelli when waiting for his chance.

“It is a big moment for him and I’m especially happy for him because of how he behaves,” Arteta said.

“Some players are respectful when you make some decisions, and some players are very respectful, like he is.

“He’s patient, but at the same time he’s really pushing and challenging and it makes every decision that you make even harder because he deserves more.

“I’m really pleased because he really helped the team to get the points today.”

Arteta may not be desperate to sell club-record signing Pepe in January.

The winger will miss most of the month due to the African Cup of Nations.

But if a club were to come in for him, Arsenal have a more than capable replacement already at the club in Martinelli.

Now is the time for the Brazilian to shine.

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