Thomas Partey to Leave Arsenal After Arteta Decides Against Renewal | OneFootball

Thomas Partey to Leave Arsenal After Contract Ends

Partey’s Arsenal Career Nears Its Conclusion

Thomas Partey will officially depart Arsenal once his contract expires on Monday, bringing an end to a four-year spell in North London. While talks had been ongoing between the club and the Ghanaian midfielder regarding a possible extension, no agreement was reached. The club is expected to confirm his exit in the early days of next week.

Though speculation had grown in recent weeks about his future, a final decision has now been made, signalling a fresh chapter for both player and club.

Midfield Mainstay During 2024–25

Despite uncertainty off the pitch, Partey remained a consistent presence on it. He featured in 52 matches across all competitions during the 2024–25 campaign, reaffirming his importance to Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup. His discipline, positional awareness and experience were frequently relied upon, particularly during key phases of the Premier League title race and European fixtures.

Yet, as Arsenal look to evolve the midfield with long-term sustainability in mind, reinforcements are already in motion.

New Faces Incoming

Arsenal have set the groundwork for a significant refresh in Partey’s position. A deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is said to be virtually completed, with the Spanish club preferring the transfer be made official at the start of July to fit financial planning. Additionally, negotiations with Brentford for Christian Norgaard are at an advanced stage, underlining the Gunners’ determination to add both quality and depth to the centre of the pitch.

With Jorginho, 33, also departing the club earlier this month for Flamengo ahead of the Club World Cup, Arteta faces a significant midfield rebuild this summer.

Partey’s Legacy in North London

Signed from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 after Arsenal triggered his €50million (£42.7m) release clause, Partey made 167 appearances and scored nine goals during his time in red and white. His physicality, composure in possession and ability to anchor the midfield proved vital in numerous high-pressure encounters. While injuries occasionally disrupted his rhythm, he remained one of Arteta’s most trusted operators when fit.

Before his move to the Premier League, Partey had enjoyed a fruitful career at Atletico Madrid, where he registered 188 first-team appearances and scored 16 goals. His honours include a Europa League triumph in 2018 and a Champions League runners-up medal from the 2016 final.

His future now lies away from the Emirates, with interest from clubs across Europe and the Middle East expected to intensify following confirmation of his exit.