Arsenal could be set for a major blow over the winter period with news Thomas Partey could be ruled out for much longer than expected.
Partey has been missing for the last few weeks and was expected to be back in time for the run up to and including the festive fixtures.
However, according to a report from The Mirror this evening, Partey could actually be missing for longer, with a return in January of 2024 not being ruled out.
The Ghanaian midfielder has suffered a number of injury problems since signing for £45m from Atletico Madrid. Indeed, Mikel Arteta has been unable to use Partey alongside Declan Rice as much as he’d like this season.
Partey’s injury could well force Arsenal into the market in January. There has also been speculation over his future, with clubs in Italy said to be keen on him.
Thomas Partey injured again as Arsenal get more bad news
This has been a bit of a nightmare weekend in general for Arsenal. After losing at Newcastle and then seeing Mikel Arteta lose his rag, the club is now coming in for criticism for releasing a statement attacking the PGMOL.
Now, adding an injury to Partey into the mix is just more bad news for the Gunners.
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Partey’s time with Arsenal has been riddle with these sorts of problems and for all how good of a player he is, it’s frustrating for the Gunners how often he is out.
Declan Rice was signed not just to replace Partey but play with him in a solid midfield. If he is indeed out until January, then that’s half the season gone for Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal need to get a hold on this sort of thing. Partey can be a key player for the Gunners but he needs to get fit and get fit quick.