Arsenal’s Arteta gives final chance to ‘underrated’ player to salvage career or face summer exit.

Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has delivered a decisive message to a player, widely speculated to be Thomas Partey, labeling him as “underrated” and offering him a final chance to resurrect his career with the club. Arteta’s stance stems from growing concerns over Partey’s persistent injury struggles, hinting that his future at Arsenal hinges on proving his value in the upcoming months.

Since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey was initially lauded as a potential heir to the iconic Patrick Vieira. However, his tenure at Arsenal has been overshadowed by recurrent fitness setbacks, significantly limiting his on-field contributions. Despite showcasing glimpses of his quality when fit, Partey has been sidelined for much of the current Premier League campaign, featuring in just four matches.

Now, as Partey returns to training and prepares to re-enter the fray against Sheffield United, Arsenal’s hierarchy appears willing to afford him one final opportunity to exhibit his talents. Success in maintaining his fitness and delivering consistent performances until the season’s end could potentially pave the way for contract discussions.

However, the stakes are high for Partey, with his future at Arsenal hanging in the balance. The club remains wary of investing further in a player prone to injury, emphasizing the need for sustained fitness as a prerequisite for securing his place in the team. Partey’s absence often exposes vulnerabilities in Arsenal’s midfield structure, underscoring his importance despite being undervalued by some.

Nevertheless, doubts linger over the wisdom of extending Partey’s contract beyond its current term, especially given his age of 31 and a history of muscular injuries. While his talent is undeniable, the risks associated with his fitness and the financial implications of a long-term commitment warrant careful consideration before any decision is made. Arsenal finds itself at a crossroads, balancing the desire to harness Partey’s potential with the pragmatic need to mitigate injury-related uncertainties.