Arsenal recently parted company with Mesut Ozil but were warned that two stars on the regular roster could cause the German the same problems.
Former Gunners striker Alan Smith has expressed fear that Nicolas Pepe and Willian are not giving the team enough.
Speaking to the Astro Stadium, the Arsenal legend said:
’32 is not going to be an important issue [for Willian] – check out Chelsea’s Thiago Silva at 36, he’s one of their favorite players, “
“It’s not about age, it’s appropriate enough, it’s not that he can’t run because he still has that little acceleration. It all comes down to thought.
“If the approach isn’t right and he’s not hungry, you’re not going to make a show of it.
“This is something for Arteta. Can he work with him on the training ground?”
Speaking further, Smith said:
“At Chelsea e [Willian] goals were threatened week in, week out and we don’t see that.
“This is what Arteta felt he was investing in when he brought him into the club. At this point he blows in his face, and that was the last thing he needed. air.
“He’s been working hard to get Ozil out of the club, but he’ll turn to Willian and Pepe now to get more out of those players.”
He also said he was concerned that it could be difficult for Arsenal to get rid of Nicolas Pepe, with the club signed for a club registration fee in 2019.
Is there still time for Willian and Nicolas Pepe to turn the tide at Arsenal?
Published January 26, 2021, 01:18 IST