Thomas Partey’s father is confident his son will play a vital role in helping Arsenal return to the Champions League next season.
Partey arrived at the Emirates in a £45.3million deal from Atletico Madrid and is expected to walk straight into Mikel Arteta’s starting XI.
Competition for Champions League places is set to be even stiffer this year, with Everton and Leicester expected to mount a challenge to the established “big-six” of Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Spurs and Arsenal.
But Partey’s father, Jacob, thinks that Arsenal’s new signing will be a driving force for the Gunners to return to Europe’s premier competition for the first time since 2016/17 – something they can achieve by finishing in the top-four of the Premier League or winning the Europa League.
‘Champions League has been one of the arguments with regards to Partey’s move to Arsenal but then having helped Atletico Madrid to book qualification in the competition over the years, I’m sure he can help Arsenal to do same,’ Partey Snr. told Bryt FM.
‘I wasn’t keen about Partey playing in the Champions League because he must work hard and make history with his new club.
‘I’m looking forward to seeing him and his club qualifying to the 2021-22 Champions League competition.’
Partey’s dad is not expecting the Ghana international to have any problems adapting to the pace of the Premier League.
‘In fact, my son’s move to Arsenal is the best,’ added Partey senior. ‘Players at some point in time move to different clubs. At this point, my son will play with his heart for the club to succeed,” he continued.
‘Partey moving to Arsenal comes with great joy. I’m sure he is going to deliver for the club. He will be an integral member of the team and command the midfield as well for the team.
‘I cannot wait to see him in the Gunners jersey because I’m optimistic he will surely shine. His best is even yet to come. I will plead with Ghanaians to pray behind him and other Black Stars players.’
