Europa League: Mikel Demands More From Nicolas Pepe After Arsenal Last 32 Qualification

 

Mikel Arteta is demanding more from Nicolas Pepe regarding his performance which he wanted to be improved on despite appreciating his contributions to Arsenal progression to the Last 32 of the Europa League on Wednesday. 

Arsenal progressed to the next round of the continental game having defeated Molde 3-0 to stay atop of Group B with 12 points followed by the Norwegian in the second.

Gunners were faced with a challenging first half with Sheriff Sinyan and Magnus Eikrem coming close to getting a goal. Nicolas Pepe soon responded for arsenal on the offensive making an attempt twice before eventually smashed home the opener gave Arsenal the lead after the halftime break. 

Just as Arteta had told the winger before, he challenged him to improve on his consistency after the team's victory over the Norwegian, however, he commended him for helping the team through to the next round. 

"He [Nicolas Pepe] created some good moments in the game and worked really hard for the team, so I really like it, I am pleased with that," Arteta commended the winger. 

Reiss Nelson doubled the lead five minutes by taping home Joe Willock's cross and Folarin Balogun added in the third with a superb finish from inside the box after the opponents were close to scoring following a curled shot from Leke James. 

The Spaniard continued, "We all know what his level, and all the time the question is how often he can get to that level and how he contributes to other aspects of the game. Today is the example of the level he needs to hit, and he needs to keep doing it because he is capable of it.