Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed suggestions that Thomas Partey’s change in position is to blame for the team’s recent struggles in the Premier League.
The Gunners have managed just one win in their last six league games, with Partey deployed as a right-back. The latest setback came in a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa, where both goals conceded originated from his side of the defense.
Despite the criticism directed at the Ghanaian midfielder-turned-defender, Arteta was quick to defend him, emphasizing that the team’s performance cannot be pinned on a single player. “I cannot judge just because one player plays in one position,” Arteta said when questioned about Partey’s role.
It appears, however, that the Arsenal boss has no immediate plans to restore Partey to his natural midfield position. The partnership of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino remains Arteta’s preferred choice in the heart of midfield.
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020, has been more effective as a midfielder, earning praise for his influence and consistency. The Gunners now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, where they will host Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday as they push for a spot in the knockout stages.
