Mikel Arteta Ends Rumours of Thomas Partey's Departure, Claims He Needs Ghanaian Midfielder

• Mikel Arteta has stated the importance of Thomas Partey
• The Ghanaian midfielder just made an injury comeback
• Partey is expected to stay at Arsenal till the end of his deal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has ended reports of a potential exit of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey in the summer transfer window.

Partey's struggles with injuries has seen him drop down the pecking order with Declan Rice Arteta's most trusted man.

The Ghana international has started only one game since October last year, playing a role in the victory over Luton Town in midweek.

There were reports Juventus and clubs in Saudi Arabia have shown interest in the 30-year-old and could leave in July over the lack of consistent playtime.

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However, Arteta reiterated the importance of the ex-Atletico Madrid star, with a year left on his current deal.

"He better have his head here because we are playing for big things and that's what we expect. We need him because he's a top player and a very important player for us and you could see on the pitch the impact he can have for us. He’s our player, he’s got one more year on his contract and I'm really happy with him," he said in the pre-match presser for the game against Brighton, as quoted by the club's official website.

Partey will be hoping to end the season on a strong note as the Gunners eye their first league title in 20 years.

The midfielder was excused from Ghana's international friendlies in March, missing the games against Nigeria and Uganda. He was also not part of the Black Stars team at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast early this year, as reported by the BBC.

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Partey opens up on injury woes

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey described his season as a 'tough one' following battles with injuries.

The Arsenal star has struggled for fitness in the ongoing campaign, limiting him to only six Premier League appearances.

He is also yet to make an appearance for the Gunners in the UEFA Champions League due to the setback.