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Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has praised former Arsenal player, Nicolas Pepe, calling the forward a formidable threat following City's 2-0 win over Villarreal.
Guardiola noted that it was due to the winger's talent that Arsenal "invested the significant amount of money" they did for him in the past.
Erling Haaland opened the scoring for the Premier League team in the 17th minute of Wednesday's Champions League match, and Bernardo Silva extended their lead to 2-0 just before halftime.
Pepe had a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit in the 77th minute but unfortunately sent his volley sailing over the crossbar.
Guardiola's squad had previously defeated Napoli and drawn with Monaco before their victory over Villarreal on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters at the Estadio de la Ceramica, Guardiola remarked, “Ah, he's really good. It has been a while since he played at Arsenal, and I'm pleased to see him here [at Villarreal].
“I’m confident that when Arsenal invested the amount they did, it was because he is an exceptional player; otherwise, that wouldn't have been the case.
“He poses a threat in the final third, especially in one-on-one situations.
“Jeremy [Doku] and Bernardo defended against him exceptionally well.”
Pepe became Arsenal’s record signing in 2019. He was recognized as La Liga’s Player of the Month for August, with Villarreal currently positioned third in the Spanish top division.
What did Pep Guardiola say about Nicolas Pepe?
Pep Guardiola praised Nicolas Pepe as a dangerous player and highlighted his skills, noting that Arsenal's significant investment in him was justified due to his talent.
How did the match between Manchester City and Villarreal go?
Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Villarreal, with Erling Haaland scoring the first goal and Bernardo Silva adding a second shortly before halftime.
What was Nicolas Pepe's performance like in the match?
Nicolas Pepe had a significant chance to score in the 77th minute but missed the opportunity, sending his volley over the crossbar.
What is Nicolas Pepe's history with Arsenal?
Nicolas Pepe was Arsenal’s record signing in 2019 and has since moved to Villarreal, where he was named La Liga’s Player of the Month for August.
