Thomas Partey provides Arsenal fans with injury update ahead of Madrid clash
Thomas Partey has provided the fans with an injury update ahead of Arsenal’s season-defining second-leg against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Gunners’ welcomed reigning champions Real Madrid to the Emirates last week, in what proved to be one of the greatest European nights in the club’s history.
Two sublime free-kicks from Declan Rice followed by an accurate finish by makeshift striker Mikel Merino made sure Arsenal took a commanding lead to the Bernabéu.
However, following the disappointment of their draw with Brentford at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta would have feared the worst for the second-leg when Partey came off injured in the 69th minute.
Thomas Partey provides Arsenal fans with injury update on social media
But in a post from Ghanian’s official instagram account on Tuesday (15 April), the midfielder eased the Arsenal fans concerns that he could miss the crucial second-leg when he posted an image of himself apparently boarding the club’s flight to Madrid.
Thomas Partey and Declan Rice key to Arsenal advancing
Football Insider Verdict
With Partey playing at the base and Rice slightly more advanced, Arsenal’s midfield overran Real Madrid at the Emirates.
Despite the recent scare, it appears the former Atletico Madrid man has put his injury troubles behind him this campaign and in turn helped showcase another side to Rice’s game.
Partey’s calmness in possession and willingness to receive passes in tight areas will be vital once again to Arsenal’s hopes of progressing to the next round.
| Arsenal stats vs Real Madrid |
| Possession – 53% |
| Total shots – 12 |
| On target – 11 |
| Off target – 1 |
The biggest decision for Arteta will be whether to stick with the advantage that his side has got or twist in the hunt to kill Madrid off in the early stages.