Arsenal - Declan Rice
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Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has criticised Arsenal over their handling of Thomas Partey’s contract situation, as the Ghanaian midfielder appears set to leave the club on a free transfer this summer.
The Gunners are preparing for a busy transfer window after finishing second in the Premier League for the third consecutive season, once again ending a campaign without silverware. While much of the focus has been on strengthening their attack, Arsenal could now be forced to replace a key component of their midfield.
Partey, who enjoyed a largely injury-free 2024/25 season, re-established himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta. His defensive presence allowed Declan Rice to play in a more advanced role, contributing significantly to Arsenal’s attacking threat. In matches where both players featured, Rice registered an impressive 10 goals and 12 assists, underscoring the success of their midfield partnership.
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However, Partey’s future at the Emirates appears all but over. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently reported that talks over a new deal have stalled, and the 31-year-old is now expected to depart once his contract expires at the end of June. Negotiations between the player and the club are said to have made little progress, with his exit considered imminent.
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Arsenal midfielders Thomas Partey with Declan Rice (Image credit: Getty Images)
Reacting to the situation, Nicol questioned Arsenal’s decision to part ways with a player he views as a defensive cornerstone. Speaking on ESPN, he warned that losing Partey would have knock-on effects throughout the squad, particularly for Rice.
“I think what it would mean for Declan Rice is huge,” Nicol said. “It seemed to me that Rice evolved last season, from being just a ball-winner to someone who drove forward, got into the box, and created chances. Without Partey behind him, he’ll have to drop deeper again.”
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Nicol went on to describe Partey as “one of the defensive rocks” Arsenal have relied on over the years and argued that his departure would weaken the team in several ways.
“In my opinion, Arsenal needed to focus all their spending on a striker, one key position that could win them the Premier League. Now, they’ll have to divert funds to find a replacement for Partey. That weakens them across the board: in midfield, financially, and in their pursuit of a top-class forward. It ultimately makes them a weaker team.”
Partey’s departure comes at a time when Arsenal are also looking to bolster their frontline, following a season where multiple attacking injuries hampered their title push. While their defence remained resilient, thanks in part to Partey’s influence, his expected exit poses a fresh challenge for Arteta’s side as they prepare for another title charge.
With several midfielders already linked to the North London club, the search for a replacement is underway. But for critics like Nicol, allowing a proven performer like Partey to leave without a fight could prove a costly mistake.
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