Thierry Henry, the revered Arsenal legend, believes that Ghana’s Thomas Partey has significantly contributed to Mikel Arteta’s tactical strategies at the club.
Under Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal has undergone a transformation after a period of evolving the club’s identity following Arsene Wenger’s tenure.
While substantial investments have been made to bring in new players, Henry acknowledges that Partey, acquired for £45 million, has surpassed expectations. He has demonstrated versatility beyond his defensive responsibilities.
In his revised role within the team, Henry points out that Partey now benefits from support from full-backs, enabling him to focus more on advancing play towards the opposition’s goal.
During a conversation on the Seaman Says Podcast, Henry remarked, “Oh [Thomas] Partey is the good player now? While instead of trying to stop the counter alone, he has a full-back on his right and on his left now he can concentrate on what’s in front of him“
Henry emphasized that the approach ensures a defensive structure to prevent counter-attacks when in possession. “And obviously the way it finished people were like, but there was a system and position to make sure that when you’re on the ball you don’t concede a counter.
Regarding the similarities between Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, Henry observed, “Obviously, the way it finished, it finished but yeah a lot of similarities [between Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta].”
In the current season, Partey has been occasionally utilized as a right-back in Arsenal’s matches against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace.
