Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey dominated conversations in the UEFA Champions League following Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Emirates Stadium on April 29, 2025.
The French side found the back of the net through Dembele in the 3rd minute, who nicely placed the ball on the edge of the post and beat goalkeeper David Raya.
The Gunners came back into the game strongly and created some decent chances, but couldn’t find the equaliser to restore parity.
After the game, Partey, who missed the game due to a suspension for two accumulated yellow cards, was at the centre of conversation, with many blaming him for the defeat.
Some notable football pundits, both locally and internationally, including Daniel Sturridge, stated that if Partey had played in the defensive midfield role, he would have given them more control and aggression to combat the PSG midfielders, Vitinha, Neves, and Fabian Ruiz.
Others indicated that Partey’s second yellow card, which he was shown against Real Madrid, was needless and negatively affected the Gunners, as Mikel Merino was not able to replicate the Black Stars player’s performance.
Others were elated about Arsenal’s loss, suggesting that the club and fans would appreciate Partey’s performances in the team and offer him a contract renewal.
In light of this, Partey will be back with the team for the second leg to boost their midfield solidity and aid their cause of staging a comeback at the Parc des Princes on May 7, 2025.
Read the reactions below:
Daniel Sturridge on Thomas Partey; He brings solidity to the midfield and defensive awareness. No Partey, no party”
pic.twitter.com/QKEQWpUMiF— THOMA5 (fan) (@ParteyHive) April 29, 2025
Our midfield is nothing without Partey, he’s the glue !! pic.twitter.com/1qpyumJQ4p
— S (@sxmafc_) April 29, 2025
PSG are that good but the absence of Thomas Partey has played so well into their hands. It is still not beyond Arsenal to turn it around.
— Collins Atta Poku (@PapaPoku) April 29, 2025
With Partey back, the party’s still on. Believe, Gooners. pic.twitter.com/Mb1pvaMLbn
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) April 30, 2025
PARTEY got that yellow card to show how important he is. New contract negotiations 💰 🤣 pic.twitter.com/59XWvE6Ogt
— WYardie (@White_Yardie) April 29, 2025
All arsenal fans saying shit about Partey all season, all of you will crumble .. everyone of you and your followers..
— Papi Tito (@tito_tttttttttt) April 29, 2025
Arsenal were badly missing one man tonight. pic.twitter.com/Z0lh8pTPhT
— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) April 29, 2025
You see what we’re missing when Partey isn’t on the pitch. His control, composure, and ability to break lines absolutely vital. Second leg in Paris with him back could be a different story.
— W (@Xnrszn) April 29, 2025
Watch Ghana U-15 boys’ 1-0 defeat to Tanzania in the semi-finals
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