Mikel Arteta Confident Thomas Partey Will Remain at Arsenal
Mikel Arteta is confident Thomas Partey will remain at Arsenal after the transfer window has closed. The Ghana international was hugely influential last term and played a key role in the Gunners’ title challenge.
While Partey’s ability has never been in question, his durability has often cost him and Arsenal dear when they have needed him most. In each of the last two campaigns his form and fitness has deteriorated during the run-ins which has led to speculation that Arsenal could look to cash in on a player who has two years left on his current contract.
Several Saudi Pro League clubs have registered an interest, while Juventus are understood to be Partey’s preferred destination should Arsenal sanction his departure.
Arteta Adamant Partey Will Stay
Arteta, however, is adamant he has no plans to part with the experienced midfielder, despite spending a club-record fee to sign Declan Rice.
‘Thomas Partey is a super important player for us and for me and we want him to be in the team, that’s for sure,’ said Arteta ahead of tonight’s friendly against Manchester United. Asked if Partey and Rice could feature in the same starting XI this season, he added: ‘Yeah, they can play together and that was in my plans.’
Partey’s Durability an Issue
Partey’s durability has been an issue for Arsenal over the past two seasons. He has missed a number of games due to injury, and his form and fitness have suffered as a result. This has led to speculation that Arsenal could look to cash in on the Ghanaian midfielder.
However, Arteta is adamant that Partey is a ‘super important’ player for Arsenal and expects him to remain at the north London club this season. He believes that Partey and Rice can play together in the same starting XI this season, and that this was always part of his plans.
Partey’s Pre-Season Performance
Partey arrived late to Arsenal’s pre-season tour of America but is in line to feature against Manchester United. He has been impressive in training and is expected to start alongside Rice in midfield. His performance against United will be closely watched as it could prove decisive in determining whether or not he remains at Arsenal this season.
Conclusion
Mikel Arteta is confident that Thomas Partey will remain at Arsenal this season despite speculation linking him with a move away from the club. He believes that Partey and Declan Rice can play together in the same starting XI, and his performance against Manchester United tonight could prove decisive in determining his future at the club.