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An exit from the oldest club competition in the world might not be the most disappointing news for Arsenal, who may see key player Thomas Partey set for a spell on the sidelines due to injury.
Arsenal were knocked out of the FA Cup on Friday night against Manchester City. In what could be a bigger loss in the context of their season, Mikel Arteta reportedly confirms a possible injury for Thomas Partey, who was substituted at half-time.
The 29-year-old Ghanaian is the only fit holding-midfielder at the club after Mohammed El-Neny's injury. An Injury for the former Atletico Madrid man could spell doom for Arsenal's title charge.
Partey injury fears
Thomas Partey was substituted at half-time in a 1-0 Arsenal defeat to Manchester City. Nathan Ake scored the lone goal in what was an end-to-end affair.
Partey's substitution after an incident with his ribs planted fears of a possible injury, which were later confirmed by Arteta, according to reports.
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“He felt something, and we didn’t want to take any risks, so he could not continue,” Arterta said post-match.
“So he could not continue. He had some discomfort, and it was getting worse and worse.
“Obviously tomorrow or the day after, he will have to have an MRI scan and see what he has.”
The Spaniard went ahead to emphasize Partey’s influence on the team, while also mentioning how El Neny’s injury makes things complicated for them.
"Partey has been one of the most important players for Arsenal this season."
"Sambi has come in & I think he has done well. It’s true that Thomas is a big influence & is a big personality & an important player in our squad.”
Arsenal could go all out for Caicedo
Arsenal are currently the leader of the Premier League. The Gunnars have been on a spectacular run, and Thomas Partey is an integral part of that.
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Partey, however reliable he is when fit, has had his problems with injuries. All of this factored into Arsenal’s thinking when they tabled a €60 million bid for Moises Caicedo that was rejected.
With a possible Thomas Partey injury, Arsenal could return to the negotiating table closer to Brighton's valuation.
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