Thomas Partey Player Profile: Arsenal’s Midfield Anchor
Welcome to the Thomas Partey Player Profile, where we explore the career of Arsenal’s midfield powerhouse. From his early days in Ghana to becoming a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad, we analyse his playing style, strengths, and impact at the Emirates.
Player Bio: Thomas Partey
- Full Name: Thomas Teye Partey
- Date of Birth: June 13, 1993
- Place of Birth: Odumase Krobo, Ghana
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Height: 1.85m (6 ft 1 in)
- Position: Defensive Midfielder
- Current Club: Arsenal FC
- Squad Number: 5
- Youth Club: Odometah FC (Ghana)
- Senior Career:
- Atlético Madrid (2013–2020)
- Loan to Mallorca (2013–2014)
- Loan to Almería (2014–2015)
- Arsenal (2020–Present)
- International Career: Ghana National Team (2016–Present)
- Major Honours:
Early Career and Atlético Madrid Breakthrough
Born in Odumase Krobo, Ghana, Thomas Partey’s football journey began at Odometah FC, a local club where he showcased his raw talent from a young age. His performances caught the attention of scouts, leading to a move to Atlético Madrid’s academy in 2011, marking the start of his European football career.
To gain first-team experience, Partey spent loan spells at Mallorca (2013–14) and Almería (2014–15), playing a key role in both teams’ midfield setups. His impressive performances at Almería in La Liga helped him earn a spot in Atlético Madrid’s senior squad under Diego Simeone.
Partey made his Atlético first-team debut in November 2015 and quickly became an integral part of Simeone’s tactical system. Known for his defensive solidity, tactical awareness, and powerful ball-carrying ability, he was a crucial player in Atlético’s 2017–18 UEFA Europa League triumph, scoring in the group stage. He also played a key role in the 2018 UEFA Super Cup victory against Real Madrid.
By the 2019–20 season, Partey had established himself as one of La Liga’s top defensive midfielders, attracting interest from several European giants. Arsenal identified him as the ideal midfield enforcer, and in October 2020, the Gunners triggered his £45 million (€50 million) release clause, securing his services for the season.
Arsenal Career: A Mixed Journey
Since his Deadline Day arrival in October 2020, Thomas Partey has been regarded as one of Arsenal’s most talented and influential midfielders. His performances in his first two seasons quickly established him as a top-class defensive midfielder, often being compared to the likes of Rodri and Casemiro in debates about the best in his position. His ability to dictate play, break up opposition attacks, and control midfield battles made him a vital cog in Mikel Arteta’s system.
However, what kept him from fully cementing himself in that elite bracket was his struggles with injuries. Recurring muscular and thigh issues meant that Partey was rarely able to maintain a full season of consistency, and his form would often dip upon returning from long absences. Just as he seemed to be reaching his best, setbacks would disrupt his rhythm, preventing him from becoming the dominant midfield force Arsenal had envisioned when signing him from Atlético Madrid.
This season, however, everything has changed. Partey has managed to stay fit for the entire campaign, playing consistently as both a defensive midfielder and a makeshift right-back when needed. His adaptability, tactical intelligence, and experience have made him a key figure in Arsenal’s push for silverware, and his performances have reminded fans why he was once regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world.
When fully fit, Partey is a game-changer—his press resistance, passing range, and defensive awareness elevate Arsenal’s midfield. With his injury issues seemingly behind him, he is finally getting the chance to show why he was once mentioned in the same breath as the very best.
Strengths and Playing Style
Thomas Partey is one of the most complete defensive midfielders in football, combining technical ability, tactical intelligence, and physical dominance. Since joining Arsenal, he has been a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s system, excelling in various midfield roles and even covering at right-back when needed. Below is a breakdown of his biggest strengths and how they define his playing style:
1. Defensive Awareness & Ball Recovery
Partey is a natural ball-winner, excelling at intercepting passes, breaking up play, and shielding the defence. His ability to read the game allows him to make crucial tackles and interceptions, often stopping counterattacks before they develop.
- Tackles per 90 mins (2024–25): 2.4
- Interceptions per 90 mins (2024–25): 1.8
- Duel Success Rate: 59%
2. Press Resistance & Ball Carrying
One of Partey’s standout traits is his ability to escape pressure. Whether receiving the ball under pressure or turning past markers, his composure helps Arsenal transition from defence to attack smoothly.
- Successful Dribbles per 90 mins: 1.2
- Pressures Escaped per 90 mins: 4.5
- Pass Completion Rate: 88.6%
3. Passing Range & Distribution
Partey’s passing ability is elite, whether it’s short build-up play or long diagonal switches to wide players. His ability to dictate the tempo is crucial in Arsenal’s control-based midfield approach.
- Progressive Passes per 90 mins: 6.1
- Long Ball Accuracy: 79%
- Key Passes per 90 mins: 1.4
4. Tactical Intelligence & Versatility
Partey’s deep understanding of the game allows him to seamlessly adapt to different tactical roles. This season, Arteta has even trusted him at right-back, where his defensive stability and passing ability have been key in Arsenal’s buildup play.
- Primary Position: Defensive Midfielder
- Secondary Position: Right-Back (2024–25)
- Average Match Rating: 7.24
5. Physicality & Stamina
Despite previous injury concerns, Partey has been physically dominant this season. His strength in duels, aerial ability, and work rate make him a commanding presence in midfield battles.
- Aerial Duels Won per 90 mins: 2.1
- Ground Duels Won per 90 mins: 5.2
Conclusion
When fully fit, Thomas Partey is an elite-level defensive midfielder, capable of controlling games with his defensive ability, passing range, and tactical intelligence. His adaptability has made him one of Arsenal’s most valuable players, and his consistency in 2024–25 has proven just how vital he is to Arteta’s side.
International Career with Ghana
Thomas Partey has been a cornerstone of the Ghanaian national team since making his senior debut in 2016. Over the years, he has developed into one of the Black Stars’ most important players, providing leadership, midfield stability, and key moments in crucial matches.
Breakthrough and Leadership Role
Partey earned his first cap for Ghana on June 5, 2016, in an AFCON qualifying match against Mauritius. His performances quickly cemented him as a regular starter, and he became a vital presence in midfield due to his defensive discipline, ball control, and passing range.
By 2018, he was regarded as one of Africa’s top midfielders, playing a key role in Ghana’s AFCON 2019 campaign, where the Black Stars reached the Round of 16 before being eliminated by Tunisia. His leadership qualities saw him named vice-captain of the national team, and he would later captain Ghana in several matches when André Ayew was unavailable.
Key Moments for Ghana
- Hat-trick hero (2017 World Cup Qualifiers) – Partey announced himself on the international stage with a stunning hat-trick in a 5-1 victory over Congo, becoming the first Ghanaian midfielder to score three goals in a single World Cup qualifying match.
- 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Playoff vs. Nigeria – Scored a crucial away goal in Abuja, securing Ghana’s place in the 2022 FIFA World Cup on away goals rule after a 1-1 draw.
- 2022 FIFA World Cup – Featured in all of Ghana’s group stage matches, helping them secure a famous 3-2 win over South Korea before narrowly missing out on the Round of 16 after a loss to Uruguay.
Major Tournaments with Ghana
| Tournament | Year | Appearances | Goals | Best Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Africa Cup of Nations | 2017 | 5 | 1 | 4th Place |
| Africa Cup of Nations | 2019 | 4 | 1 | Round of 16 |
| Africa Cup of Nations | 2021 | 3 | 0 | Group Stage |
| FIFA World Cup | 2022 | 3 | 1 | Group Stage |
| Africa Cup of Nations | 2023 | 4 | 1 | Quarter-finals (est.) |
Style of Play for Ghana
Partey plays in a more advanced role for Ghana than he does for Arsenal. Often deployed as a box-to-box midfielder, he is tasked with driving the team forward, creating chances, and controlling the tempo. His long-range shooting and set-piece delivery also make him a goal threat from midfield.
Leadership and Legacy
Now one of Ghana’s most experienced players, Partey is expected to be a key figure in the next AFCON and 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle. His leadership, tactical intelligence, and ability to perform in big moments ensure that he remains a central figure for the Black Stars as they continue their hunt for international success.
Thomas Partey Merchandise for Arsenal Fans
For Arsenal and Thomas Partey fans, here’s a collection of must-have memorabilia featuring figures, signed shirts, and exclusive collectibles. Whether you’re looking to add to your Arsenal collection or find the perfect gift for a Gunners supporter, these items are perfect for showcasing your admiration for Thomas Partey.
1. SoccerStarz – Arsenal Thomas Partey – Home Kit (Classic Kit) (Figures)
- A detailed collectible figure of Thomas Partey in Arsenal’s classic red and white home kit.
- Official SoccerStarz model, standing approximately 2 inches tall.
- Perfect for Arsenal memorabilia collections or as a fun desk/display item.
2. Framed Thomas Partey Signed Shirt – Luxury Framing & Certificate of Authenticity (Red)
- An authentic hand-signed Thomas Partey Arsenal shirt, professionally framed in luxury red-themed presentation.
- Includes a certificate of authenticity for guaranteed authenticity.
- High-quality framing makes it a stunning display piece for any Arsenal fan.
3. Thomas Partey AFC Hand-Signed Football Boot – Gunners Presentation (AFTAL COA)
- Authentic hand-signed football boot worn in Arsenal colours, personally autographed by Thomas Partey.
- Presented in a Gunners-themed display case, making it the perfect collector’s item.
- Comes with an AFTAL (Autograph Fair Trade Association) Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring legitimacy.
This exclusive collection of Thomas Partey merchandise is ideal for passionate Arsenal supporters looking to celebrate one of the club’s key players. Add these unique items to your memorabilia collection today!
What’s Next for Partey?
As Thomas Partey’s contract expires this summer (2025), the big question is whether Arsenal will offer him an extension. Despite being a fan-favourite and a top-class player when fit, reports suggest that the club is unlikely to renew his deal, leaving his future up in the air.
Many Arsenal fans—including myself—would love to see Partey stay for another year or two, even as a rotational option. His experience, tactical intelligence, and versatility have been invaluable, especially this season, where he has featured regularly at defensive midfield and right-back.
However, it looks increasingly likely that Partey will move on, possibly to a new league as he enters the final years of his career. Several clubs in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and MLS have reportedly shown interest, maybe we will see one of them offering him a lucrative final contract before retirement.
While it’s disappointing to see a player of his quality leave, Arsenal are already looking toward the future midfield rebuild with Declan Rice, Odegaard, and potentially afew new summer signings. If this is indeed his final season at the club, fans will hope to see him end on a high, helping Arsenal push for silverware before departing for his next chapter.