Nicolas Pepe, a professional footballer from Ivory Coast who plays as a right-winger for Villarreal, has accumulated a net worth of $27 million through his career earnings, including his $7.28 million annual salary at Arsenal (2019-2023) and current €60,000 weekly wages at Villarreal, making him one of the highest-paid African footballers following his £72 million record transfer to Arsenal in 2019.
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Nicolas Pépé |
Born | May 29, 1995 (Age 29) |
Nationality | French-Ivorian |
Current Club | Villarreal |
Position | Right Winger/Forward |
Career Earnings | $27,040,000 (Through 2024) |
Major Achievement | FA Cup Winner (2019-20) |
International Caps | 47 (Ivory Coast) |
Key Facts ABOUT Nicolas Pepe
- Nicolas Pepe completed a record-breaking transfer to Arsenal in 2019, becoming the club’s most expensive signing at £72 million.
- The Ivorian footballer earned an annual salary of $7,280,000 during his peak years at Arsenal Football Club.
- The professional winger secured victory in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, representing the Ivory Coast national team.
- His career trajectory spans multiple top-tier clubs, including successful spells at Lille, Arsenal, and currently Villarreal.
- The forward’s goal-scoring record shows 101 professional goals across 383 appearances in all competitions.
How Did Nicolas Pepe Build His Career and Net Worth?
Nicolas Pepe has accumulated significant wealth through his professional football career, with career earnings reaching $27,040,000 through 2024. His most lucrative contract came from Arsenal, where he signed a 5-year, $36.4 million deal in 2019, earning an average annual salary of $7,280,000.
What Shaped His Early Life and Development?
Born in Mantes-la-Jolie, France, on May 29, 1995, Pepe spent his childhood in Paris’s 19th arrondissement. His father Celestin worked as a prison guard, and this family background significantly influenced his early years. Pepe began his football journey as a goalkeeper for Solitaire Paris Est until age 14, before transitioning to an outfield player when his family moved to Poitiers.
How Did His Professional Career Progress?
Starting at Poitiers FC in France’s fifth tier, Pepe’s talent caught Angers’ attention in 2013. His development accelerated during a loan spell at Orléans, where he contributed to their promotion. The breakthrough came at Lille, where he scored 35 goals in 74 appearances, leading to his record-breaking £72 million transfer to Arsenal in 2019.
What Defines His Playing Style and Achievements?
Pepe’s playing style combines speed with technical skill, particularly effective when cutting inside from the right wing onto his left foot. His achievements include:
- FA Cup victory with Arsenal (2019-20)
- UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year (2018-19)
- Prix Marc-Vivien Foé winner (2019)
- Africa Cup of Nations winner (2023)
What About His International Career?
Despite being born in France, Pepe chose to represent Ivory Coast, making his debut in 2016. His international career highlights include:
- 47 caps and 11 goals for Ivory Coast
- Participation in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments
- Crucial role in Ivory Coast’s 2023 AFCON victory
What Characterizes His Personal Life?
Pepe maintains a relatively private personal life, though recent media attention has focused on his relationship with Teanna Trump in 2024. Previously, he was married to Fanny B, with whom he has two children. They divorced in 2023 but maintain a co-parenting relationship.
Current Status and Recent Developments
Currently playing for Villarreal in La Liga, Pepe joined the Spanish club in August 2024 after a brief spell with Trabzonspor. His current contract at Villarreal runs until 2026, where he earns €60,000 per week.
Financial Portfolio and Assets
While specific details about Pepe’s properties and investments remain private, his career earnings provide insight into his financial status:
- Arsenal salary (2019-2023): $7,280,000 annual average
- Current Villarreal salary: €3,120,000 gross per year
- Total career earnings through 2024: $27,040,000
Career Statistics Overview
Professional career highlights:
- Lille: 74 appearances, 35 goals
- Arsenal: 80 appearances, 16 goals
- International: 47 caps, 11 goals
- Total professional appearances: 383
- Total professional goals: 101
This comprehensive overview of Nicolas Pepe’s career, achievements, and financial status reflects his journey from a young goalkeeper in Paris to becoming one of football’s notable wingers, with significant earnings and achievements both at club and international levels.
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