Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe scored with two sublime free-kicks as the Gunners came from 2-1 down to beat Vitoria Guimaraes in the Europa League yesterday evening.
The Ivorian international hasn’t performed to expectations since his £72m arrival from Lille in the summer, but last night’s brace demonstrated what the 24-year-old is truly capable of.
Supporters on Twitter have been praising Pepe’s performance and are hopeful that his starring role against Vitoria will be the catalyst he needs to kickstart his season:
He’s arrived ??
— GoonerViews (@GoonerViews) October 25, 2019
We don't need him to score in open play. As long as we win a free kick in opposition half. He'll score…. pic.twitter.com/OO16hn1gzq
— Eddie Longbridge (@EddieLongbridge) October 25, 2019
Too much sauce ??
— amy (@amyampaire) October 25, 2019
The great freekicker
— Ayobami John (@haybam15) October 25, 2019
He saved my bet…… such a wonderful player @pepe
— SAMAGBEYI CENSUS OLA (@CensusSamagbeyi) October 25, 2019
Worth every penny!!!
Now sort out Unai
— Sasuke Uchiha (@NaijaArsenal) October 25, 2019
He has a lot of potential
— IVÀN thé Uganda ИOMAD ?? (@IvaNammanda) October 25, 2019
Don't stop at 2 goals…
— Mr. J (@Jer3myChan) October 25, 2019
Kudos. Bring in more goals. ??
— KeeLo. (@gathogo_k) October 25, 2019
2 stunning free kicks. Can’t stop watching them ?
— ⚽️ T ⚽️ (@gooner_toni) October 25, 2019
There has been a noticeable change in Pepe’s form since the international break. Despite missing a gilt-edged chance against Sheffield United on Monday night, he was still one of the best players on the pitch.
The Ivorian followed that up with his decisive contribution in the victory at the Emirates yesterday, and fans will be hoping he puts in another good display when Arsenal face Crystal Palace on Sunday evening.