End of an Era: Partey Bids Farewell to Arsenal

Thomas Partey to Leave Arsenal as Contract Expires

By Emmanuel Austin Baah On Jun 30, 2025

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey will officially part ways with Arsenal today, 30 June 2025, following the expiration of his contract with the English Premier League club.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal are expected to formally announce his departure early this week, bringing an end to his five-year stint at the North London side.

The former Tema Youth and Atlético Madrid player had been in discussions with Arsenal regarding a possible contract extension. However, both parties were unable to reach an agreement on new terms.

While speculation had grown in recent weeks regarding his future, confirmation of his departure is now imminent.

Partey, who turns 32 later this year, was a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad during the 2024–25 season, making 52 appearances across all competitions. Despite persistent injury concerns throughout his time at Arsenal, he remained a reliable presence whenever fit.

Earlier this year, reports emerged that Arsenal were planning a midfield overhaul. The Gunners are believed to have sealed a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, with the move expected to be completed in July. The club is also reportedly close to finalising an agreement with Brentford midfielder Christian Nørgaard, reinforcing the position previously held by Partey.

Partey’s exit signals the end of an era for the Black Stars vice-captain at the Emirates Stadium. He joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atlético Madrid after the club activated his €50 million release clause. During his tenure, he made 167 appearances and scored nine goals.

Before his move to England, Partey developed through the ranks at Atlético Madrid, making 188 appearances and scoring 16 goals. He enjoyed notable success with the Spanish side, winning the UEFA Europa League in 2018 and finishing as a UEFA Champions League runner-up in 2016.

His departure comes shortly after that of fellow midfielder Jorginho, who joined Brazilian side Flamengo ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Reports from Spain suggest that Partey is now on the radar of La Liga champions FC Barcelona, who are looking to strengthen their midfield under new manager Hansi Flick.

Author

Emmanuel Austin Baah

My name is Emmanuel Austin Baah, professionally known as “Okocha”. I am a seasoned Ghanaian journalist, broadcaster and football commentator from Senya Bereku in the Central Region. My work reflects a strong commitment to factual reporting, ethical journalism and the continuous promotion of Ghanaian sports.

I am currently pursuing my studies at Cape Coast Technical University, building on a solid foundation of media practice and communication. I previously served as a sports producer at Radio Gold (90.5) and Montie FM (100.1) in Accra, where I was actively involved in editorial planning, programme production, live commentary and in-depth sports analysis.

Presently, I am a Senior Writer at SportsNetGhana.com, a role in which I produce well-researched features, match reports, athlete profiles and analytical pieces. My work consistently highlights emerging talents, captures key sporting developments and contributes to shaping informed sports discourse in Ghana.

Over the course of my career, I have covered numerous major sporting events both locally and internationally. Among these, the highlight remains my coverage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, a significant milestone that strengthened my expertise in global football reporting and enhanced my understanding of international sports dynamics.

I am widely recognised for my clarity of analysis, engaging commentary style and strong command of both local and global football trends. Beyond the newsroom, I participate in community initiatives aimed at developing young sports journalists and promoting youth engagement in sports.

For professional engagements, media collaborations or enquiries, please contact me on 0265284330.

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