Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has heaped praise on teammate Thomas Partey, calling the Ghanaian international an underrated asset who brings crucial composure and balance to the Gunners’ midfield.
Rice’s comments come ahead of Arsenal’s high-stakes UEFA Champions League semifinal second-leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain, set for Wednesday, May 7, in France.
Partey missed the first leg due to suspension—a notable absence as Arsenal struggled to find rhythm early in the match. PSG took advantage and secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Ousmane Dembélé’s fourth-minute strike, leaving the Gunners with a difficult task in the return fixture.
Reflecting on his midfield partnership with Ghana’s deputy captain, Rice highlighted Partey’s ability to dictate play and stabilize the team.
“The best thing about playing with Thomas is the calmness he brings to the team,” Rice said. “Before I came to Arsenal, there was already a lot of talk about how good he is. He doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves. I’m quite lucky Thomas is there—he lets me roam up and down.”
Partey’s return is expected to be a major boost for Mikel Arteta’s side as they chase a place in their first Champions League final since 2006.
The 31-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020, remains a key figure when fit. With his contract set to expire in the coming months, talks are reportedly ongoing between the club and his representatives over a possible extension.
