Fans are not happy with Unai Emery for not introducing Nicolas Pepe into the game against Wolves
To say that the Arsenal faithful are unhappy is an understatement of massive proportions and their mood was certainly not lifted when Unai Emery did not utilise the clubs record signing yesterday.
Yesterday, Emery made three substitutions, Gabriel Martinelli came on in the 60th minute for Alexandre Lacazette. Bukayo Saka was swapped for Lucas Torreira on the 73rd minute. Then, with just three minutes left in regulation time when Arsenal are pushing for a winner, the manager brings off Kieran Tierney for Sead Kolasinac.
Bewildering, to say the least, and the fans were not impressed that Pepe was left kicking his heels on the bench.
Fans react
A quick check of Twitter and you get a taste of the reaction.
Saka for Torreira is one of the worst subs I've ever seen. There was no need for it. We were in control and had the perfect balance. So Emery brought on a winger (not even Pepe) for a DM. We conceded 3 minutes later. Absolutely ridiculous.
— Paddy (@VieiraPaddy) November 2, 2019
In a match were we desperately need a goal, instead of this buffoon to bring in Pepe to run at the defence he brought in Kolasinac for Tierney and this makes absolutely no sense #ARSWOL pic.twitter.com/oHoHYxXNfh
— Kenneth Okoh (@KennethOkoh22) November 2, 2019
At the time Pepe is finding his form back, @UnaiEmery has named him on the bench in 2 consecutive games and not play a single minute..
You can't make this up again.The man is more lost than the Titanic ship 🛳
Sack this Fraud now @Arsenal when the damage is Minimal.#EmeryOut
— EngrChris01 (@Da_Ozone) November 2, 2019
As Conte once said, I think Emery has 'senile dementia'. Bringing on Kolasinac when we need a goal instead of Pépé
— C (@AFC_Carys) November 2, 2019
Emery just smoked crack, he brought in defender instead of attacker like Pepe #ARSWOL pic.twitter.com/q4qWIwj5dp
— Rainbow (@rainbowsky00) November 2, 2019
when you see ozil starting, but pepe on the bench and realize we’re playing a 4-4-2 diamond at home vs wolves: pic.twitter.com/sQEHb1TVo6
— MatteoSZN™ (@guenzizou_) November 2, 2019
Emery is not making life for himself any easier with these decisions. Of course, fans do not pick the team but a sensible clear explanation of why the £72 Million signing was not used would have been helpful.
These are the sort of decisions that cost managers their jobs because it opens up questions about their judgement.
I personally do not understand the managers thinking on this. In fact, I have yet to find anyone give a coherent reason why Pepe was not brought into the game.