Nicolas Pepe has described his move to Arsenal as a reward for the struggles in his career.
The Ivorian became the Gunners' club-record signing on Thursday as he completed a £72million move from Lille, ending months of speculation over his future.
The 24-year-old has spent his entire career up to this point in France, starting in the amateur leagues before moving to Ligue 2 and later Ligue 1.
Pepe made his name at Lille over the past two seasons, scoring 22 times and notching 11 assists in the league last term alone.
"Being here is very emotional because it has not been easy for me," he told Arsenal's official website.
"I have come a long way and struggled a lot and so signing for this great club is a big reward.
"It was my family and my agents. We talked and thought a lot about it. It was at the time of the CAN (Africa Cup of Nations) as well, we thought a lot during, before and after the CAN.
"It was important to make the right decision and I am convinced that Arsenal is the right choice."
Pepe is the 21st African footballer to play for the Gunners and one of many more who have come from the French leagues.
"When I knew I was coming to Arsenal, I immediately thought of the French guys who play here," he said.
"I thought of [Mesut] Ozil, the world champions, [Alexandre] Lacazette, [Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang and many more. Of course, these are the players who sprang to mind because I used to watch them when I was at Lille.
"Also, Lacazette used to play for Lyon and so I have had the opportunity to play against him. It will be an honour to play alongside him."
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