“I don’t mean to sound unprofessional, but I realized last night that Arteta may no longer want me here. What he said to me after I conceded that penalty was something no player has ever said to me before. It hurts because this is the club I give everything for,” Thomas Partey shared about what Arteta told him after being substituted early yesterday.

Thomas Partey Hints at Rift with Arteta After Early Substitution

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has dropped a bombshell regarding his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta following the Gunners’ recent match.

The Ghanaian international, who was substituted early after conceding a penalty, revealed that Arteta’s words to him in that moment were unlike anything he had ever heard from a teammate or coach.

Speaking about the incident, Partey said, “It occurred to me last night that Arteta doesn’t want me to be here anymore. What he said to me when I caused that penalty—no player has ever said such a thing to me before. It pains me because this is the club I give my all for.”

His statement has sparked widespread speculation, with fans and pundits alike questioning what exactly Arteta said to him and whether there is growing tension between the two. Partey has been a key figure for Arsenal since his arrival from Atlético Madrid in 2020, but injuries and competition for places have limited his involvement in recent months.

The Ghanaian’s frustration is understandable, given his commitment to the club and his desire to contribute on the pitch. However, if his claim about Arteta’s words is true, it raises concerns about the manager’s treatment of players, especially senior figures like Partey.

Some Arsenal supporters have expressed disappointment in Arteta, with one fan stating, “If what Partey said is true, then I’m really disappointed in Arteta for making such a statement.” Others, however, believe that Partey’s emotional reaction may have stemmed from frustration rather than genuine mistreatment.

So far, neither Arteta nor Arsenal have responded to Partey’s comments, leaving room for further speculation. With the Gunners still fighting for silverware this season, any internal tension could impact team morale.

It remains to be seen whether this situation will escalate or if both parties will move past the incident. One thing is certain—Partey’s words suggest a level of unhappiness that Arsenal fans will hope does not lead to a premature exit for the midfield general.