Partey’s Impressive Form Settles Any Arteta Doubt Over New Deal | OneFootball

Arteta Open to Partey Arsenal Extension Amid Crucial Run-In

Partey’s Arsenal future under discussion

Thomas Partey’s future at Arsenal has moved closer to resolution, with Mikel Arteta signalling that the club are considering extending the Ghanaian midfielder’s stay in North London.

Partey, 30, is in the final months of his current contract, which is set to expire at the end of the season. While Arsenal have not yet publicly tabled a formal offer, Arteta’s latest comments suggest that behind-the-scenes negotiations are progressing.

“Yes, there is progress with all the players,” Arteta confirmed when asked about Partey’s situation. “I’ll leave that to Andrea [Berta] and the club to decide and to talk about.”

When pressed further on whether Partey remains in the club’s long-term plans, the Arsenal manager offered a subtle but clear indication: “The intention is very clear. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward.”

This represents a notable shift from earlier in the season, when Partey’s injury issues and limited game time had cast doubts over his role in Arteta’s project. Now, with a string of commanding performances, particularly in Europe, Partey is proving to be indispensable once more.

Photo: IMAGO

Champions League displays change the narrative

Partey’s commanding displays in Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final triumph over Real Madrid have reinforced his value to the squad. He was widely regarded as one of the standout players across both legs, helping to neutralise Madrid’s midfield and providing the control Arteta demands at the base of his system.

The Gunners’ 2-1 victory at the Bernabéu on Wednesday night was a statement performance, and Partey’s leadership in midfield was a significant component of that success. His ability to control tempo, break up play, and link transitions made him a key figure in both legs.

His form has not gone unnoticed within the club, and with Arsenal eyeing a strong finish to the season on multiple fronts, Partey’s experience could prove vital—not just for the weeks ahead, but potentially the seasons beyond.

Premier League pressure mounts ahead of Ipswich clash

Following the European high, Arsenal turn their attention back to domestic matters with a visit to Ipswich on Sunday. Despite facing a side battling relegation, Arteta is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.

“For us, it’s a big game,” said Arteta. “We need to start to win football matches in the Premier League to at least maintain the position that we are in and to push into the last few games with some hope.”

With Liverpool ahead in the title race and Newcastle just four points behind in third, there is little margin for error. Arsenal have won only two of their last seven league matches, and another slip-up could prove costly.

“They are a really well-organised team,” Arteta said of Ipswich. “What Kieran [McKenna] and the staff have done is remarkable and you see every week how they perform and the amount of issues they give the opposition. So we expect a tough game.”

Internal strategy and Partey’s leadership valued

Internally, Partey is seen as a player whose leadership and tactical intelligence can be pivotal in the final stages of tight contests. While his injury record remains a consideration, the consensus at the club is shifting back toward renewal—especially if terms can reflect his current fitness and future role.

Arteta’s faith in Partey has rarely wavered, and the current indications point toward a new contract being increasingly likely—provided the details align for both parties.

For now, Arsenal’s focus is on maintaining their challenge on both domestic and European fronts. But behind the scenes, the gears are turning. And Thomas Partey could yet be at the heart of Arteta’s plans for seasons to come.