Thomas Partey, a Ghanaian international, claims that when he decided to sign with Arsenal and participate in the Premier League, he did so in search of a “challenge.”
The midfield player, who had spent more than seven years with La Liga team Atletico, moved to England in 2020. He was reportedly bought £45 million to join the North London team, making him the most expensive Ghanaian footballer in history.
Although the 30-year-old is in his fourth season of Premier League action, he has largely been a shell of the player he was in Spain throughout his time in England.
In an interview with Arsenal’s official website, the Black Stars vice-captain discussed what motivated him to move to England. “Coming here was a big change because I had come from somewhere where I arrived as a youth player, so there was not that expectation on me at Atletico and not the same responsibility,” he said.
“Everyone noticed the transfer fee when I arrived at Arsenal, and I was joining a team that was well-observed.
“Everyone is aware of Arsenal and its reputation, and I joined the team as one of its stars, hoping to contribute to its development. Thus, there was a significant shift, and the play’s style also changed. All I could do was maintain my good attitude, adjust, and learn how to function in a new environment where everyone wants me to perform at my absolute best every single day. For me, it was a worthwhile educational experience.
“That challenge was one of the reasons I joined, though. Although I am aware of how difficult the Premier League is, I still wanted to prove myself, feel like I could do it, and experience the challenge.”
Since the move to the Gunners, Partey has featured 106 appearances times for the club and almost led them to the Premier League title during the 2022/23 season.
This season, the Ghanaian has barely stayed fit but he will be hoping to help the club in the final stretch of the season as they chase the league title once again.
