Thomas Partey’s injury update could be crucial for Arsenal’s north London derby on Saturday.
Thomas Partey has been Arsenal’s best central midfielder this season. He’s also among Europe’s best central midfielders.
The Ghanaian had the third-best dribble success rate in Europe’s top five leagues last season. Partey scored lower than Veratti and De Jong. If the 29-year-old wasn’t injured, Arsenal’s £45million release clause on deadline day in 2020 would be a bargain.
Partey is in contention to start against Tottenham in the North London Derby on Saturday, and he could be the game’s deciding factor compared to last season’s fixture.
Arsenal’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham in the North London Derby hurt their top-four chances. This loss led to another against Newcastle, and Mikel Arteta’s side fell out of the Champions League places while Spurs climbed in.
Thomas Partey’s thigh injury hampered the Gunners in the previous derby. Just like this season, Arsenal lose their midfield dominance without the Ghanaian.
This season, Arteta’s side traveled to Old Trafford with five straight wins. Arsenal lost 3-1 to United after Albert Sambi Lokonga replaced Partey.
Arsenal has historically struggled away against top-six teams. Partey in midfield reduces Arsenal’s chances of losing.
His potential availability for Saturday’s north London derby is a major boost. Arsenal is hopeful Partey will play against Spurs.
The Ghanaian left national team duty early with a knee injury before facing Brazil. Manager Otto Addo said it was a precautionary measure.
He hoped Thomas would get well soon. We didn’t want to risk playing him against Brazil in a friendly, but it would have helped.
Partey’s presence is crucial for the Gunners in this match. He could decide Arsenal’s North London Derby fate.