Former Arsenal midfielder Júlio Baptista has called on the Gunners to extend Thomas Partey’s contract, describing the Ghanaian international as a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s system.
Speaking on the current state of Arsenal’s midfield options, Baptista hailed Partey’s intelligence and tactical discipline, suggesting that his understanding of Arteta’s game plan has been vital to the team’s progress in recent seasons.
“I think for Arsenal, Thomas Partey has been an incredible player,” Baptista said. “In Partey, Arteta has found a player that understands what he wants.”
While backing a contract extension, Baptista also advised Arsenal to bring in a younger midfielder to provide competition and prepare for the future.
“If I’m Arteta, I’d renew his contract but also bring in another player, and put him under a bit of pressure, make him sweat,” Baptista added.
“Put a player behind him in the pecking order, who can start to understand how he plays, and what he does for the team and ease him into the action.”
Despite Partey’s age — he turns 32 in June — Baptista insisted that it should not be a deciding factor in contract talks.
“I know he’s older, but I believe that his age shouldn’t be a decisive factor in whether or not Arsenal give him a new deal.”
Partey, whose current deal with the North London club expires in 2025, has been linked with a potential extension, with reports indicating that both the player and manager are open to continuing the partnership.
Arsenal are expected to make a final decision in the coming weeks as they prepare for the next Premier League season.
