Thomas Partey was broadly criticised for his display in Arsenal’s 4-2 victory over Leicester City last weekend – the midfielder was blamed for both of the goals that the Gunners conceded.
At his best, Partey is known for breaking the lines at Arsenal, a number six with a physical aura and passing range that is among the best in Europe.
Although, it’s been a while since Arsenal supporters have seen Partey hit those heights at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal fans were furious with Partey on Saturday, saying that he was ‘jogging’ when Leicester scored, a midfielder who hasn’t quite been finding his passing rhythm anymore either.
It’s widely believed that Partey will leave Arsenal once his contract expires, meaning that this is likely his last campaign in north London.
And perhaps on evidence of his performance against Paris Saint-Germain, there’s still a chance to leave on a high note.
Arsenal ‘lost control’ once Thomas Partey was replaced by Mikel Merino
Before being replaced by Mikel Merino in the 63rd minute of the game – Partey was described as ‘excellent’, one of Arsenal’s better performers.
Given his inconsistency this season, Partey has been a polarising figure, but fans seem to be changing their mind after a much needed hour of dominance against PSG.
READ MORE: Ian Wright gives instant Mikel Merino verdict with bold claim after his Arsenal debut vs PSG
One fan wrote: “You’re lying to yourself saying that Partey didn’t produce at least a nine out of 10 performance against PSG.”
Another protested: “Partey was excellent in our win against PSG, we lost control of the ball after he was subbed off.”
Of course, these comments are a far cry from those who were saying that Partey was ‘finished’ after his Leicester performance, a player accused of rushing all of his passes.
Against the French Champions, Partey appeared more composed in the middle, he wasn’t always looking for the killer ball.
One fan actually took aim at Merino whilst defending Partey, believing they’d seen this story often before.
“So this is the Merino you people are saying will bench Partey? I remember when we signed Rice, you people said Rice will bench Partey. Did he?
“So when will you people start believing that Partey is the best holding midfielder ever happened to us?”
Perhaps that won’t be an opinion shared by all, but the Partey debate is certainly rife among Arsenal fans right now.
Arteta has always believed in Partey at Arsenal
One thing that is for sure is that Partey certainly has the backing of Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, who has continued to start the 31-year-old whenever he’s been fit.
Say it quietly but Partey is currently enjoying his best injury-free run at the start of a season since his Atletico Madrid days.
Whether he’s starting in a few months time or not, Partey will remain a key player for Arsenal right up until he leaves.
Perhaps Arsenal will look at Martin Zubimendi to replace Partey eventually, even if he’ll take some convincing to leave Spain.
Edu wasn’t able to find Arsenal a new number six this summer, but it seems as if Arteta is coping with the situation well.
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