Arsenal’s Thomas Partey is set to be sidelined for the rest of the year after undergoing minor thigh surgery in early November, adding to his string of injuries that have limited his appearances in the 2023/24 season. Despite his past fitness at Atletico Madrid, Partey’s recurrent setbacks have made him a liability for Arsenal.
Declan Rice, acquired in the summer, has helped fill the void left by Partey’s absence. Initially considered for a potential sale after a lackluster previous campaign, Arsenal opted to retain Partey. However, this decision is now proving costly as he faces six to eight weeks on the sidelines post-surgery, with the actual recovery time possibly extending further.
Although the surgery aims to address Partey’s persistent thigh issue, fan frustration is growing due to his frequent unavailability. Despite being a crucial asset when fit, Partey’s significance to the team seems to be diminishing.
The timing of his surgery means he will miss the busy festive period, and the hope is for him to recover in time for Ghana’s African Cup of Nations campaign in January. If Arsenal decides against selling him in January, there’s a possibility that Partey may not play for Arsenal again until February.
Simon Collings of the Standard suggests that the recovery timeline might extend beyond expectations. While Partey’s absence is a blow for Arsenal, the presence of Rice has softened the impact.
In the interim, the midfielder’s future at Arsenal remains uncertain, with the decision to retain him in the summer now under scrutiny. The frustration among fans is palpable as they grapple with the prospect of an extended period without one of their key players.
