Thomas Partey has been cleared to travel with the Arsenal squad to Madrid for their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid, despite concerns over a knock sustained during the recent win over Brentford.
The Ghanaian midfielder was forced off during the weekend fixture as a precaution, but after assessment, Partey is expected to be fully fit and ready to partner Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard in midfield at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Arsenal head into the second leg with a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates and will be looking to complete the job in Spain to book a place in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009.
However, Mikel Arteta’s side will be without Italian midfielder Jorginho, who has been ruled out due to a rib injury. His absence further underscores the importance of Partey’s availability, as the trio of Partey, Rice, and Ødegaard will be tasked with controlling the midfield against a Real Madrid side known for their experience and quality in big European nights.
With the Bernabéu atmosphere sure to be electric, Arsenal’s ability to maintain composure and dominate the middle of the park will be crucial in fending off any potential comeback from Los Blancos.
