Thomas Teye Partey
Date of birth: 13 June 1993
Place of birth: Krobo Odumase, Ghana
Nationality: Ghanaian 🇬đź‡
Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Position(s): Defensive midfielder
Arsenal Senior Career: 2020-2025
Senior Apps/Goals: 167/9
General Information
Thomas Partey (born 13 June 1993) is a Ghanaian midfielder renowned for his defensive solidity, tactical intelligence, and versatility. Since joining Arsenal in 2020, he has become a pivotal figure in the club’s midfield, offering both defensive protection and attacking impetus. Partey’s ability to read the game, win possession, and transition quickly has made him an essential player for Arsenal, helping the team control matches and maintain balance across the pitch.
Early Life
Born in Krobo Odumase, Ghana, Thomas Partey developed his footballing talent from a young age. He joined local academies before moving to Spain to join Atlético Madrid’s youth system, where he honed his technical abilities, tactical awareness, and physical conditioning. His time in Spain allowed him to adapt to European football, emphasizing disciplined positional play, strong tackling, and precise distribution—traits that would become his hallmark. Partey’s early development reflected his commitment, professionalism, and adaptability, qualities that would serve him throughout his career.
Club Career
AtlĂ©tico Madrid (2012–2020): Partey progressed through AtlĂ©tico Madrid’s ranks and made his first-team debut in 2012. After loan spells at Mallorca and AlmerĂa, he returned to AtlĂ©tico and established himself as a versatile midfielder capable of defensive and offensive contributions. Over the years, he helped AtlĂ©tico secure multiple La Liga titles and perform strongly in European competitions. Known for his composure, passing range, and ability to break up opposition play, Partey attracted attention from top clubs across Europe.
Arsenal (2020–Present): Partey signed for Arsenal in October 2020, quickly becoming a transformative presence in midfield. His debut season demonstrated his ability to shield the defense, distribute the ball effectively, and contribute to counter-attacks. Arsenal has utilized Partey both as a deep-lying defensive midfielder and in a more advanced box-to-box role, depending on tactical requirements. His athleticism, positioning, and game intelligence have made him a cornerstone of Arsenal’s midfield structure, providing stability and leadership on the pitch. Over multiple seasons, he has been central to Arsenal’s domestic and European campaigns, helping the team compete at the highest levels.
Playing Style
Partey is known for his combination of physical strength, technical ability, and football intelligence. He excels at intercepting passes, winning duels, and maintaining possession under pressure. Equally capable of launching attacks with accurate long balls or quick passing sequences, Partey offers versatility that allows him to influence games across multiple phases. His stamina, work rate, and tactical discipline enable him to cover large areas of the pitch, while his leadership ensures the team maintains cohesion and balance. Partey is also known for stepping up in high-pressure situations, demonstrating composure and reliability when the team needs it most.
International Career
Partey has been a mainstay for the Ghana national team since 2016, earning over 50 caps and often captaining the squad in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations. His international performances mirror his club role: controlling the midfield, linking defense and attack, and demonstrating consistency under pressure. Partey’s ability to adapt to different systems and roles makes him invaluable for Ghana, where he is recognized as a leader and key figure on the field.
Off-Field Developments
In recent months, Thomas Partey has faced legal scrutiny following charges brought against him by authorities. The case is ongoing, and the player has pledged cooperation with law enforcement. While these proceedings have drawn media attention, Partey has continued to maintain professionalism with Arsenal, fulfilling his training and match commitments. The outcome of these legal matters remains pending, and the club has issued no formal disciplinary statements beyond acknowledging the situation.
Impact and Legacy at Arsenal
Since joining, Partey has helped stabilize Arsenal’s midfield, bringing a blend of defensive reliability and attacking support that complements the team’s tactical approach. His presence allows other midfielders and forwards greater freedom, knowing the defensive structure is secure. Despite challenges, including injuries and external distractions, Partey remains central to Arsenal’s ambitions domestically and in European competitions. Fans recognize his influence on team dynamics, work ethic, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments.
Conclusion
Thomas Partey is a modern midfielder whose combination of skill, intelligence, and leadership has made him indispensable to Arsenal and Ghana. While facing ongoing legal challenges, his contributions on the pitch demonstrate his value and resilience. As he continues his career, Partey’s impact both for club and country will remain significant, solidifying his reputation as one of Arsenal’s most influential midfielders of the current era.
| Season | Appearances | Goals |
| 2020-2021 | 33 | 0 |
| 2021-2022 | 26 | 2 |
| 2022-2023 | 40 | 3 |
| 2023-2024 | 16 | 0 |
| 2024-2025 | 52 | 4 |


