It really can be amazing how one change at half time can change the fortunes of a team so much, and Nicolas Pepe certainly proved that against Brighton.
The Emirates Stadium was full of booing at half time, with the Gunners going into the break one goal down, and showing little proof that they could turn that around.
Freddie Ljungberg unleashed the summer signing for Joe Willock at the beginning of the second half, and Arsenal were back level in a matter of minutes.
It was Alexandre Lacazette who got the equaliser but Pepe was squaring up his man and beating him time and time again – something Gunners’ fans went wild for.
Despite his impact, it counted for nothing in the end as Neal Maupay headed home in the final 10 minutes for Brighton to take home the three points.
Here is a round-up of some of the Tweets below:
Pepe had a huge impact
— JAY B AFC (@jayjames4) December 5, 2019
Pepe instant impact it’s like he’s actually a good player
— Nico Pepe (@AFC_Pepe) December 5, 2019
https://twitter.com/AfcMason49/status/1202699697359609856
Pepe immediately dangerous
— Darren (@SouthWestAFC) December 5, 2019
The Ivorian international has yet to have the desired impact at the Emirates Stadium, but he has definitely proved before that he is capable of providing a massive threat in the final third.
Pepe was involved in 33 goals in 38 appearances last season at Lille, and if given the chance for a consistent run in the first-team, there is the chance he could do exactly the same in the Premier League.
The early signs were good for the African after coming on, and he certainly made a huge difference going forward and is surely guaranteed a start against West Ham after another disappointing result.
https://twitter.com/AFCTyphon/status/1202700195429044242
https://twitter.com/Dewamiwa/status/1202700863384539137
The playfulness Pepe shows. I love him. #afc #coyg #inpepeItrust #ARSBHA
— JH (@ingredijenz) December 5, 2019
https://twitter.com/GoonerAFC1988/status/1202701129903202304
The 24-year-old hasn’t delivered what was expected of him yet in North London, but there are definitely glimpses of promise being shown – none more so than his cameo against Brighton.
Pepe looks incredible! What an impact, Arsenal have been a transformed team in the second half! Lacazette with an equaliser #AFC 1-1 #BHA #ARSBHA
— Ravi Banger (@RaviBanger1993) December 5, 2019
https://twitter.com/AfcHeritage1886/status/1202700443824074759
