Arsenal’s important midfield transfer rests on Thomas Partey decision

Is Thomas Partey a No. 6 or a Box-to-Box Midfielder for Arsenal?

Just as with pretty much every single aspect of Arsenal, there is a divide of opinion with this: is Partey a box-to-box midfielder yet to be unlocked, a tandem No. 6/8 next to a similar profile or can he be the more expansive No. 8 with a true sitting midfielder alongside?

The 28-year-old has demonstrated elements of both so far. If we’re being critical, the more expressive element of his game has yet to truly blossom: decision making and the final pass have been lacking whereas the proactive defensive style he adopts has looked strong.

Arteta’s marquee signing to date, we were told that Partey’s move to Arsenal was made with an eye on him being freed from his Diego Simeone-inspired defensive shackles. Xhaka can’t dribble and lacks the athleticism to push too high up the pitch, therefore Partey would have greater freedom to make those drives in possession his clever body shaping and technical ability allowed him to.

If Bissouma were to be brought in then the burden of creativity on his shoulders would increase ten-fold. The Malian had an excellent campaign last time out as the destroyer who covers every blade of grass in his own half, intercepts and tackles, with most elements beyond the halfway line not his remit.

Were it Sanches to join this summer then the roles are inherently different. The Portuguese loves to collect the ball from deep, progress through the thirds and make those final third passes and entries. His defensive capabilities are lacking and Partey would revert to being the deepest operator in midfield.

So what is the decision? Where does Arteta plan to take this side? By all means keep your options open but once you set your sights on a target you’re also setting your sights on a profile. So far this window we’ve seen a blend of goalscoring No. 8’s, deep-lying destroyers and Xhaka-esque possession-based players with outstanding passing qualities.

Whatever the manager does opt for, it speaks volumes of Partey.

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