“I know some fans will actually come for my head for Saying the truth but to be honest our best player is not Saka, Saka have been playing rubbish lately, our best player is this particular Arsenal player but He’s not getting the support He deserves from the fans” – Mikel Merino named the ONE Arsenal player that has been carrying the team lately – Not Ødegaard and Not Martinelli!
The Premier League is a stage where emotions run high, and players often have to endure criticism from all corners. And when someone dares to speak out, especially someone as passionate as Mikel Merino, the football world listens. In a recent interview, the Real Sociedad midfielder made waves by stating what many fans might find hard to digest: “Arsenal’s best player isn’t Bukayo Saka, it isn’t Martin Ødegaard, and it isn’t Gabriel Martinelli.” According to Merino, there’s one player who has been the driving force behind Arsenal’s recent successes, and it’s time they got the recognition they truly deserve.
The player in question? Thomas Partey.
While the likes of Saka and Martinelli have been grabbing headlines for their brilliance in previous seasons, Merino boldly claimed that Partey has been the unsung hero in the Gunners’ midfield this season. However, according to Merino, “Partey is not getting the support he deserves from fans.”
The remark comes at a time when Saka, often hailed as one of the brightest talents in the Premier League, has faced criticism for his recent performances. Fans have been frustrated by the winger’s inconsistency, with some even questioning whether he’s living up to the lofty expectations set for him. Saka has undeniably been a crucial part of Arsenal’s attacking setup over the years, but lately, there seems to be a growing sense that something is missing from his game. Perhaps it’s the fatigue from a long, intense season, or maybe the pressure of being the focal point of the team is beginning to weigh on his shoulders. Whatever the cause, Merino’s words seem to ring true for many Arsenal supporters who have noticed Saka’s dip in form.
But Merino’s declaration goes further than just pointing out a dip in Saka’s performances. It highlights a deeper issue within the squad’s dynamics – a lack of appreciation for the players who might not be grabbing the spotlight, but whose contributions are indispensable. Thomas Partey, the Ghanaian powerhouse, has been holding down the midfield, shielding the defense, and dictating the tempo of games, yet has remained largely under the radar compared to his more flamboyant teammates.
Arsenal fans have long known Partey’s worth, but it’s clear that his influence has been taken for granted by a portion of the fanbase, with the attention often diverted toward more attacking players. However, as Merino points out, “Partey is the engine that makes the Gunners tick. Without him, there’s no fluidity, no control.”
Partey’s calmness on the ball, his ability to break up opposition attacks, and his vision to start counter-attacks have been crucial in Arsenal’s play this season. His positioning and intelligence allow other players like Ødegaard and Saka the freedom to express themselves further up the pitch. Yet, Partey continues to do the dirty work, putting in solid performances week in and week out, while the spotlight remains on others.
What makes this situation even more frustrating is that despite his immense contributions, Partey has been the subject of transfer rumors in the past. Arsenal fans have questioned whether he is the right man to lead the midfield, with some even calling for his replacement. However, as Merino emphasizes, “Partey is exactly what Arsenal needs right now, and fans need to wake up to that reality.”
In a time when many are looking for a spark from the attacking players, it’s essential to remember that a successful team is built on balance. Partey’s role might not always be as glamorous as scoring a stunning goal or providing an assist, but his consistency and leadership in the middle of the park are just as vital to Arsenal’s ambitions. In many ways, he is the unsung hero – the player who does the hard yards, tackles, and intercepts with little fanfare.
Merino’s comments are bound to spark a debate among Arsenal fans. Will they continue to overlook Partey’s significance, or will they start recognizing the midfielder for his essential role in the team’s success? The truth, however, is undeniable: Arsenal’s best player right now is not Saka, Ødegaard, or Martinelli. It’s the one who makes sure the wheels keep turning, week after week – Thomas Partey.
As the season progresses, Arsenal fans might want to start appreciating the silent workhorses like Partey. After all, without them, the star players wouldn’t have the platform to shine. So next time you watch an Arsenal match, pay closer attention to Partey’s movements – you might just begin to understand why Merino’s words carry so much weight.