Partey’s withdrawal from international duty is good news for Arsenal | OneFootball

Arsenal are currently third in the Premier League table, one point behind current leaders Liverpool.

The Gunners have had a tough start on paper and their schedule does not get easier. They face Liverpool, Newcastle United and Chelsea before the next international break.

With this in mind, the London giants will need their key players in the best possible form and shape.

Kai Havertz recently withdrew from Nations League duty with Germany with a knee problem, but journalist Charles Watts says his withdrawal was purely precautionary.

It could be a similar scenario with Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian withdrew from the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers due to medical issues, but he is reportedly suffering from illness and nothing more.

The Gunners decided to keep Partey in London rather than endure long-distance travel. This could be a blessing in disguise going forward.

The 31-year-old has been a key player under manager Mikel Arteta this season, starting every Premier League and Champions League game to date.

Partey has managed to stay unscathed during this period, but the midfielder has previously been prone to injuries due to his high workload.

Had Partey travelled for international duty, he would have obviously started and played the full 90 minutes in the upcoming double header against Sudan.

His non-involvement with his country is a plus for the Gunners. The £45 million-rated signing has the chance to get a much-needed breather after a string of games.

Partey has missed 80 games for club and country since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2020, and he faces a crucial period in his career with his contract expiring next summer.

Arsenal are yet to consider a renewal for him, but the midfielder still has plenty of incentive, as an injury-free campaign could encourage offers from elsewhere.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.