Nicolas Pepe

Nicolas Pepe is a prominent footballer, recognized for his dynamic attacking play and significant contributions to top-tier clubs and the Ivory Coast national team. After an exceptional 2018-19 Ligue 1 season where he netted 22 goals and provided 11 assists for LOSC Lille, Nicolas Pepe earned a spot in the UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year and was named Lille Best Player of the Season. His impactful performances led to his €10 million transfer to Lille in 2017, following a successful period at Angers SCO where he contributed to the team reaching the 2017 Coupe de France Final. Earlier in his career, Pepe played a pivotal role on loan to US Orléans for the 2015-16 season, helping them achieve promotion from the third tier.

His impressive form at Lille culminated in a club-record move to Arsenal FC in August 2019 for €80 million (£72 million). During his three seasons in North London, Pepe made 112 appearances across all competitions, scoring 27 goals. He was instrumental in Arsenal’s FA Cup victory in 2020 and the England Supercup win in 2021. Internationally, Pepe has been a consistent presence for the Ivory Coast national team since his debut in 2016, participating in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2017, 2019, and 2021.

Demonstrating his long-term value, his contract with Villarreal was extended until 2028. A significant international achievement also came in 2024, as Pepe was part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations.