In March 2022, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey issued a passionate rallying cry to his Arsenal teammates, urging them to approach every remaining English Premier League match as a final in their quest to secure qualification for the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League. Speaking in an interview shared by Football Daily on Twitter, Partey emphasized the importance of consistency and focus, highlighting Arsenal’s status as one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs. “We are in a very big club. Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League, and the Champions League is where they belong,” he stated, underscoring the club’s ambition to return to Europe’s elite competition.
Arsenal’s Push for the Top Four
At the time, Arsenal were in a strong position to claim a top-four finish, which would secure their place in the Champions League for the first time since the 2016/17 season. Partey stressed the need to treat each game with maximum intensity, saying, “We have some games to finish, and we have to approach every game as a final and that’s what we should be focused on.” His words reflected the high stakes of the Premier League campaign, with Arsenal competing against rivals like Tottenham, Manchester United, and West Ham for a coveted Champions League spot.
Partey’s Impact on the Pitch
Partey’s leadership off the field was matched by his contributions on it. During a 2-0 victory over Leicester City in March 2022, the Ghanaian midfielder scored a crucial goal, showcasing his growing influence in Mikel Arteta’s squad. His performance highlighted his ability to anchor the midfield while also contributing offensively, a key factor in Arsenal’s resurgence during the 2021/22 season. Partey’s experience, having previously played for Atlético Madrid in La Liga, added depth to his perspective on the demands of top-tier football.
Premier League vs. La Liga Intensity
In the same interview, Partey compared the English Premier League to La Liga, noting the former’s higher intensity. “The intensity in the English Premier League is higher when compared to the Spanish La Liga,” he remarked. This observation underscored the physical and tactical challenges Arsenal faced in their remaining fixtures, further emphasizing the need for relentless focus to secure Champions League qualification. Partey’s time at Atlético Madrid, where he competed in both La Liga and the Champions League, gave him a unique perspective on the demands of elite competitions.
Arsenal’s Ambition and Partey’s Role
Under Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal were undergoing a revival, with young talents like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe complementing experienced players like Partey. The midfielder’s call to action reflected the team’s collective ambition to restore Arsenal to its former glory. His leadership in the dressing room and performances on the pitch were vital in maintaining momentum during a critical phase of the season.
As the Premier League campaign progressed, Partey’s message served as a reminder of the club’s high expectations. With several key matches remaining, Arsenal’s ability to heed his advice and treat each game as a final would determine their success in returning to the Champions League stage.
