Thomas Partey parted ways with Arsenal on June 30, 2025 following his departure from the club as a free agent. The Spanish midfielder — who arrived from Atlético Madrid a couple of years back — leaves for free after four tumultuous years in North London. The decision had been made in-house almost a week and a half ago, closing the chapter on a stint that was massive on potential, but less so in return on the investment thanks to ongoing injuries.
The Gunners now turn their attention to midfield reinforcements as they bid to cut the gap at the top in the upcoming season.
Thomas Partey Arsenal Spell Ends After Four Mixed Seasons
Partey signed for Arsenal in October 2020 when they triggered his £45m release clause. Mikel Arteta saw him as someone that could transform games, one who could help protect the back four and control the tempo. Early signs are good, the Ghana international enjoying a number of commanding performances in his first full campaign.
However, injuries became a recurring issue. Whether through thigh issues, groin strains or something else, Partey was unable to remain accessible. In four Premier League seasons, Partey totalled just 85 appearances at the club; an average of around 21 games per season. He played just 14 times due to injury in the long term in 2023/24.
🚨👋🏾 Thomas Partey leaves Arsenal today as planned since 10 days ago.
His contract expires, Thomas will leave as free agent… and Christian Nørgaard will join the Gunners from Brentford. pic.twitter.com/k8tbvipeHe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2025
Limited though his availability may have been, Arsenal appreciated his leadership and his experience. Having allowed his contract to expire – with no new deal on the table – Arsenal declined to offer new terms. The two sides have agreed to part, people close to the situation said. Partey sought a new challenge, and Arsenal sought to cut their wage bill and rebalance their squad.
Partey was also instrumental as the Gunners capped a top-four finish and title tilt, for 2022/23, bonding well in midfield alongside Granit Xhaka and Martin Ødegaard. But the rise of Declan Rice and the emergence of younger midfield alternatives pushed him to the fringes by the end of the 2024/25 season.
Arsenal Midfield to Evolve as Partey Moves On
Partey’s departure means Arsenal are deprived of one of their more experienced players. He was often not in the best shape, but his sense of technique and his defensive awareness were always weapons in the big matches. He provided Arsenal with control in midfield by progressing the ball and breaking up play whenever he remained fit.
Only Partey’s time at the club reflected the progression of Arteta’s tactics. Playing as a sole pivot initially, he was later utilised in a double-pivot with Xhaka before Declan Rice’s inclusion unbalanced the side. It was difficult, though, for Arteta to rely on him during high-stakes stretches given his frequent absences.
Arsenal will now look for a midfield replacement with sporting director Andrea and the recruitment team having identified the position as a priority. Among targets are players who are mid 20s, possessing athleticism and versatility. The Gunners also want to steer clear of profiles with ongoing injury issues — a lesson they have taken from the Partey experience.
Author’s Opinion
The Thomas Partey Arsenal exit may help to usher in a more youthful, robust midfield settup. For a player of such world-class reputation and quality, the consistency never really matched his status. Injuries interrupted rhythm, and in a side that requires peak physical levels, it proved unsustainable.
Yet no one can ignore the role that Partey played in Arsenal’s ascent. He added Champions League caliber experience and lifted the team’s tactical floor. His departure paves the way for a fresh start — for Arsenal’s midfield, for Partey himself.
Wherever he lands next, fitness will decide if he thrives or fades. At his best, he is a world class holding midfielder. But at Arsenal, fans saw only glimpses of his ability.
For more sports updates, make sure to follow us on:
Recommended for you