Arsenal’s midfield maestro, Thomas Partey, is reportedly considering an exit from the club as early as January, with European giants Juventus and Atletico Madrid expressing their interest in the 30-year-old Ghanaian international. Partey’s decision to seek a new challenge comes as a culmination of persistent injury struggles and a shift in his role within Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Partey’s journey at Arsenal began with high expectations and a £45 million price tag when he made the move from Atletico Madrid in 2020. His reputation as a formidable central midfielder preceded him, and Arsenal fans eagerly anticipated his impact on the Premier League. However, his time at the club has been marred by a series of injury setbacks, which have hindered his ability to establish consistent form.
In the two years since his arrival, Thomas Partey has managed only 84 Premier League appearances for the Gunners. This limited playing time, combined with his recurring injury issues, has undoubtedly frustrated both the player and the club’s management.
What adds complexity to Partey’s situation is the shift in his role within the Arsenal squad. Under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, the Ghanaian midfielder has been deployed in various positions, including as a deeper-lying midfielder, a central playmaker, and even as a makeshift center-back. This adaptability reflects Arteta’s tactical flexibility, but it has also meant that Partey has not consistently occupied his preferred role in central midfield.
Partey’s potential exit in January represents a significant decision for both the player and Arsenal. For the player, a move to a club like Juventus or a return to Atletico Madrid offers the prospect of rediscovering his best form in a familiar environment. Both clubs boast strong midfield units and could provide the platform for Partey to showcase his talents on a consistent basis.
On the other hand, Arsenal faces the challenge of potentially losing a player with immense potential. When fit and in form, Partey has shown glimpses of his midfield prowess, which includes his ability to break up opposition attacks, distribute the ball effectively, and contribute offensively. His departure would necessitate finding a suitable replacement to maintain the team’s balance and competitiveness.
The reported interest from Juventus and Atletico Madrid indicates that Partey’s reputation and abilities are still highly regarded on the European stage. Both clubs have a history of success and could offer Partey the opportunity to compete for domestic and continental honors.
As for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s management, the situation with Partey highlights the importance of squad planning and injury management. While Partey’s injuries have been an unfortunate hindrance, the club must evaluate its approach to player fitness and conditioning to minimize such setbacks in the future.
Partey’s potential departure also raises questions about Arsenal’s overall strategy. The club has made significant investments in its squad in recent years, and the departure of a key player like Partey could prompt a reevaluation of the team’s direction and recruitment priorities.
Indeed, Calciomercato reports that the player ‘has made it clear that he doesn’t like’ his new role at right-back so he ‘intends to leave the Emirates as early as January’.
Another reason for Partey’s frustrations are sure to involve his inability to string a number of games together.
Indeed, he suggested earlier in the summer that his injury issues at Arsenal are down to him taking time to ‘adapt’ to life in the Premeir League.
“Well, I think it’s adaption. If you go from a different league, normal things happen,” Partey said.
“I am working on everything, I am trying my best. I am trying to help the team any time I can. When I am ready and fit, I will be ready to help the team.”
