Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Thomas Partey for his adaptability and effort in their recent match against Newcastle United, despite the team’s narrow 1-0 loss.
Playing away at St. James’ Park, Arsenal was unable to secure points as Newcastle clinched the win with Alexander Isak scoring from an Anthony Gordon assist. Partey initially took up an unusual position at right-back but later returned to his regular midfield role when Oleksandr Zinchenko and Ethan Nwaneri came on in the second half.
Although some fans questioned Arteta’s tactical approach and Partey’s effectiveness in the match, Arteta stood by the Ghanaian midfielder, showing full confidence in his versatility. “I’ll need to make that assessment once I have more clarity about where he struggled,” Arteta remarked, “but I don’t have the impression he struggled much.”
He continued, emphasizing Partey’s willingness to adapt for the team: “Every time we have that situation with Thomas playing a different position because we don’t have another right-back at the moment, we’re always going to have that debate. Thomas is fantastic.”
Arsenal will look to rebound from the loss as they face Inter Milan in a crucial Champions League match at the San Siro on Wednesday night, followed by a Premier League showdown against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
