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Nicolas Pepe has broken his silence after being sent off in Arsenal’s 0-0 draw at Leeds with an apology to the fans.
The £ 72 million winger saw red in the 51st minute of the Premier League clash at Elland Road after heading Ezgjan Alioski.
Although Arsenal held on to win a point, manager Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe’s “unacceptable” actions and said the Ivorian had “let the team down” in a devastating post-match evaluation.
Pepe will now miss the Gunners’ next three Premier League games, including the North London derby with top-flight Tottenham.
And the 25-year-old has taken to social media to apologize for his reckless actions against Leeds.
(Image: Molly Darlington / POOL / EPA-EFE / REX / Shutterstock)
“I have let my team down at a crucial moment in the game and there are no excuses for my behavior,” Pepe wrote in an Instagram post.
“I am deeply sorry and would like to apologize to the fans, my teammates, my coach and the rest of the club.”
Pepe has scored just one goal in eight Premier League games this season and failed to do well in an unusual start to the competition.
Who should start in place of Pepe when Arsenal host the Wolves on Sunday? Give us your opinion here.
(Image: Pool via REUTERS)
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Former Arsenal assistant and interim coach Freddie Ljungberg was bitterly disappointed by the expulsion of the former Lille star.
“He cannot have any complaints. The Leeds player was not suffering, but the rules are the rules,” Ljungberg said. Sky sports .
“It is very disappointing because he has not played much and has had a chance today. He stops his own progress with his behavior.
“I thought this game would be good for Pepe. I thought he would be a winner of the match, but instead it ends like this.”
Although suspended in the Premier League, Pepe will be available for the trip to Molde on Thursday as Arsenal look to maintain their 100% Europa League record.
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