This archive report was first published on 3 October 2019.
Pressure is a natural part of playing for a big club like Arsenal, according to manager Unai Emery. He told Nicolas Pepe, the £72m record signing, that he needs to learn to deal with the pressure of being an Arsenal player.
Emery's comments come after Pepe struggled in his first few games, including a nightmare display at Old Trafford where he gave away the ball 17 times. The 23-year-old admitted he was lacking confidence even before that game.
Despite the struggles, Emery is considering giving Pepe extra game time to find his form, which saw him score 23 goals last season and earn his move from Lille to the Premier League.
"They are human, every player," Emery said. "We are playing every time, as a coach or a player, under pressure. Under pressure is a positive. Being under pressure is because we are at a big club with a very demanding objective."
Emery also praised Pepe, saying he is an amazing player who will have a big career at Arsenal, but needs time to adjust. He added that many players take time to settle in at the club, and that Pepe is progressing.
Emery will send out a changed team for Thursday's Europa League tie with Standard Liege, with Mesut Ozil set to start. He must also decide whether to play top scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the cup competition.
