Former Arsenal and Brazilian midfielder midfielder Júlio Baptista has thrown his support behind a contract renewal for Ghana international Thomas Partey, praising the midfielder’s importance to Mikel Arteta’s side while encouraging the club to bring in competition to keep him sharp.
Speaking in an interview, Baptista hailed Partey’s influence at the heart of Arsenal’s midfield and the understanding he shares with manager Mikel Arteta.
“I think for Arsenal, Thomas Partey has been an incredible player. In Partey, Arteta has found a player that understands what he wants,” Baptista said.
The former Brazil international, however, advised that while Partey deserves a new deal, Arsenal should also consider signing another midfielder to provide competition and prepare for the future.
“If I’m Arteta, I’d renew his contract but also bring in another player and put him under a bit of pressure—make him sweat,” he added. “Put a player behind him in the pecking order, who can start to understand how he plays, and what he does for the team, and ease him into the action.”
Baptista also played down concerns over Partey’s age, stressing that experience should not be overlooked in a title-chasing squad.
“I know he’s older, but I believe that his age shouldn’t be a decisive factor in whether or not Arsenal give him a new deal.”
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons but remains a key component of Arteta’s midfield when fit. Talks over a possible contract extension are reportedly underway, with Partey said to be keen on staying at the Emirates.
