Major blow in the market, Arsenal has once again gotten ahead of Europe's top clubs and secured the contract renewal of one of their most important players. Mikel Arteta has managed to close a strategic move that could have direct consequences for Barcelona, which was hoping to sign the African player for its future project.
When everything pointed to a possible departure of Thomas Partey from Arsenal, coach Mikel Arteta made his move. The Spanish manager has pressured the board to ensure the continuity of the Ghanaian midfielder. He has finally succeeded. According to British media, Arsenal has already reached an agreement for Thomas Partey's contract renewal.
The player, whose contract was set to expire in June 2025, has chosen to stay at the Emirates. He has thus rejected offers from both FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid, clubs that were closely monitoring his situation. The Ghanaian international, who has been under scrutiny for his injuries and inconsistent performance, has changed his stance.
arteta keeps him
He has regained Arteta's trust in recent months and the coach has considered his presence in the squad to be key. Arsenal, in this way, secures a footballer with experience and leadership, and this decision has direct consequences in the market, especially for Barça and Atlético de Madrid. In the case of the Catalans, Hansi Flick had given the green light to a possible signing if Partey became a free agent.
The coach wanted to strengthen the defensive midfield with a physical profile and experience on big stages. Partey was a perfect fit. Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid dreamed of a return, Diego Pablo Simeone kept an excellent relationship with the Gunner midfielder and has never hidden his desire to bring him back.
thomas: neither atlético nor barça
Partey was a key piece for Cholo before leaving for London in 2020; his return would have been a morale boost for the team and the Atlético fans. However, the player has prioritized sporting stability and Arteta's project. Despite initial doubts, Arsenal has bet on his continuity and has decided that Thomas will not leave London.
Partey will have a more defined role and less competition, especially if no other defensive midfielder arrives this summer. The coach's trust has been decisive in his decision. This turn of events also directly affects young Marc Bernal. The midfielder from Barça Atlètic was being monitored as a plan B by Arsenal.
If Partey had not renewed, the Gunners had positive reports on the Catalan youth player. His physical profile and his ability to adapt to different roles were highly valued in London. Now, with Partey renewed, the English club is shelving any move for Bernal.