"One of the best performances I have seen from him" - Mikel Arteta praises Arsenal star for his showing in 5-1 win over Sporting
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Thomas Partey for his excellent showing in the Gunners' 5-1 triumph over Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League. The north London giants demolished the Portuguese champions at the Estadio Jose Alvalade on Tuesday, November 26.
Thomas Partey has enjoyed a season of redemption at the Emirates after being strongly linked with an exit for a while. The Ghana international was heavily linked with a move away from Arsenal over the past couple of years but a move failed to materialize.
Partey had a solid outing against Sporting CP in the Champions League in the midweek which impressed Mikel Arteta. The Gunners boss insisted that it was one of the midfielder's best performances for the club.
Labelling Partey as a 'massive' player for his side, Mikel Arteta said, as quoted by AFC Stuff on X (formerly Twitter):
“I think it’s one of the best performances I have seen from him, especially the way he’s dominated the game, so that’s the level he can play. This year he’s been so consistent as well because he always has a role, he’s a massive player for us.”
Partey joined Arsenal in the summer of 2020 from Atletico Madrid after the Gunners activated his reported £45 million release clause. He initially established himself as a key player for the club but his stock fell over the past couple of seasons.
A major reason behind Partey's struggles in the last two seasons was his injury struggles but he has been almost a regular this season. The 31-year-old has made 18 appearances across competitions this season with 16 starts to his name.
Arsenal involved in a three-horse race to sign Ligue 1 starlet: Reports
Arsenal are reportedly prepared to battle Liverpool and Aston Villa for the signature of Lyon sensation Malick Fofana. As claimed by Caught Offside, the 19-year-old has attracted interest from a number of top clubs across Europe including the Premier League trio.
Fofana only joined Lyon this summer from Gent and has been excellent for the French Ligue 1 side. The winger has contributed with five goals and two assists in 16 appearances across competitions this campaign.
While Fofana is contracted at Lyon until the summer of 2028, Les Gones could be forced to sell him next summer. They must improve their financial position to avoid being relegated to Ligue 2.
Lyon are expected to demand around €30 to €35 million for the Belgium international but might have to settle for a lesser fee. Arsenal are thought to be looking to add another winger to their squad with Fofana in their sights.
