As Arsenal prepared for the crucial second leg against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, Thomas Partey was anticipated to be a pivotal player.

Having missed the first leg due to a suspension from a careless yellow card received during Arsenal’s victory over Real Madrid, Partey’s absence was felt. Manager Mikel Arteta had to adjust his lineup, which limited Declan Rice’s effectiveness as he was required to play a more defensive role.

However, Partey returned for the away match in Paris, allowing Arteta to field his strongest squad, aside from those sidelined for the season: Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Gabriel Jesus. Prior to the match, Rice urged Partey to elevate his performance against PSG, but aside from a few impressive long throws, he struggled to make a significant impact.

**French Outlets Weigh In on Partey’s Performance**

Following the match, French media outlets provided their assessments of Partey’s performance, with one publication rating the £45m midfielder a mere 3/10.

Maxifoot criticized Partey for being “far too soft” during PSG’s second goal, where Achraf Hakimi capitalized on a defensive lapse to effectively seal Arsenal’s fate. They commented: “Returning to the starting lineup after suspension, the midfielder had a disappointing outing. His central pass led to Ruiz’s opening goal, and he was too passive against Hakimi and Dembele for the second Parisian goal.”

Footmercato offered a slightly more favorable view, giving Partey a 5.5/10 rating, but still noted his role in conceding the second goal. They stated: “Partey’s absence in the first leg was felt, and his long throw-ins caused problems for PSG early on. His intensity in midfield kept PSG contained for much of the first half. However, he struggled to manage the relentless pressure from the Parisian midfield and ultimately gave away the second goal to Hakimi due to a lack of assertiveness.”

**The Future of Thomas Partey at Arsenal**

Looking ahead, Partey’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and it remains uncertain whether Arsenal will offer him a new deal. Reports suggest that the club has reconsidered their stance on Partey’s contract, but the 31-year-old is reportedly seeking a pay increase, which the Gunners may be hesitant to accommodate.

While one match does not define Partey’s overall season—he has been largely impressive—there is growing speculation about Arsenal potentially pursuing Martin Zubimendi, who could provide a more reliable option in the defensive midfield role. If Partey remains with the club, a reduced role may be beneficial for his fitness, given his history of muscle injuries.

It was a disappointing evening for Arsenal, and unfortunately, Partey was unable to alter the outcome of the tie.