2 pros & cons of Arsenal extending Thomas Partey's contract

Pro #2 - Jorginho replacement needed

Jorginho is a useful reference point in this situation given that we can expect Partey to fill the shoes of the Italian if he does extend his stay at the Emirates. The Ghanaian will be reduced to a more than capable squad player.

Jorginho features in domestic cup competitions and fills in at the base of midfield when Arteta opts to rotate. He can enter games late on to kill them off, too. Partey is not a controller in the mould of the Italian, with Partey's late-game role likely to focus upon shutting the opposition out.

Nevertheless, it's a role that needs filling with Jorginho unlikely to earn a new contract with the Gunners. The veteran midfielder extended his stay after a bright opening 12 months in May this year, but he could leave the club at the end of the season. He'd leave a void that'd need replacing.

Con #2 - Injury history

It's a sensitive topic I know. Partey's injury woes have killed the Gunners at crucial points throughout Arteta's tenure, and it'd be fitting if the midfielder succumbs to a long-term injury after committing his future to the club.

While the midfielder has avoided the treatment table so far in 2024/25, we're seemingly never too far away from the next ailment and there have been murmurs that Partey will Ghana's upcoming October fixtures as a pre-caution having picked up a knock.

The 31-year-old has missed 80 games for club and country since he joined Arsenal for a variety of issues; including hip, ankle, and hamstring injuries. At this stage of his career, how can the Gunners commit to any new contract with the next Parety setback just around the corner?

Wouldn't it make more sense to let him walk and make it somebody else's problem?

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