Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey recently shared insights into his decision to join Arsenal, highlighting his ambition to challenge himself in the prestigious Premier League.
The move, which saw him leave Atletico Madrid for Arsenal in a £45 million deal on deadline day in the summer of 2020, represented a significant shift for the seasoned 30-year-old player.
In an interview with Arsenal.com, Partey acknowledged the transition from La Liga to the English topflight as a substantial challenge but expressed his eagerness to embrace it wholeheartedly. He recognized Arsenal’s renowned profile and embraced the responsibility of contributing to the team’s growth.
“Everybody knows about Arsenal, the profile, and I had arrived as one of the stars, there to help the team to grow,” he elucidated, shedding light on his mindset upon joining the club.
Transitioning to a different style of play and adjusting to the heightened expectations posed additional hurdles for Partey. He emphasized the importance of staying positive, acclimating to the new environment, and learning to thrive under the pressure of performing at a high level consistently.
“All I could do was stay positive, get used to it, and learn to deal with a new situation where everybody expects you to be at your very top level every single day,” Partey remarked, reflecting on his adaptation process at Arsenal.
Despite the challenges, Partey highlighted the allure of testing his abilities in the fiercely competitive Premier League as a primary motivator behind his decision to join Arsenal. He expressed his eagerness to face the demanding nature of English football and prove himself capable of thriving in such an environment.
“One of the reasons I joined though was for that challenge,” he emphasized. “I know the Premier League is very tough, but I wanted to feel that challenge, to test myself, and feel capable of doing it.”
Partey expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he received from his agent, parents, and everyone associated with Arsenal. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, staying focused on continuous improvement, and learning from every experience on and off the field.
Having spent seven fruitful years at Atletico Madrid, where he amassed an impressive trophy haul under the guidance of Diego Simeone, Partey brought a wealth of experience and winning mentality to Arsenal. His journey from La Liga to the Premier League reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Since joining Arsenal, Partey has made significant contributions to the club’s success, playing a pivotal role in securing the Community Shield and contributing to the team’s pursuit of returning to the UEFA Champions League. As he continues to evolve and adapt to the demands of English football, Thomas Partey remains a vital asset for Arsenal, embodying the spirit of perseverance, dedication, and ambition.
