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'My start has been a bit negative' - Pepe reflects on early Arsenal career

The Ivory Coast forward was a big money summer arrival but has so far failed to replicate the form that earned him his move to Emirates Stadium

Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe says the departure of head coach Unai Emery was “painful” while admitting that his start to life in north London has been “negative”.

Much was expected of the Ivory Coast international when he arrived at Emirates Stadium for €80 million (£72m/$89m) from Lille in the summer having scored 23 goals for the French side last season.

However, the 24-year-old has struggled to replicate his goalscoring form in a Gunners shirt, netting just three goals in 17 appearances, none of which have come from open play.