Arsenal FC manager Mikel Arteta has announced that Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is in good shape and ready to compete in the upcoming English Premier League match against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, October 19, at 16:30 GMT.
There was uncertainty regarding Partey’s participation after he missed two recent 2025 AFCON qualifiers for Ghana. The Black Stars faced Sudan twice during the international break, resulting in a goalless draw and a 2-0 defeat, which significantly impacted their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Ghana last failed to qualify for the tournament in 2004.
During a pre-match press conference, Arteta provided an update on the fitness of Arsenal players, confirming Partey’s availability.
“Thomas Partey is fit and ready. As for Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz, we’ll make a decision today. Ben White, Timber, and Zinchenko are making progress, and we hope to have some positive news soon,” Arteta said.
Partey has been instrumental in Arsenal’s strong start to the 2024-2025 season, having scored in their 2-0 victory over Aston Villa earlier in the campaign.
Additionally, fellow Black Stars player Antoine Semenyo, who has enjoyed a solid start to the season with three goals, is expected to feature for Bournemouth against Arsenal.
Source: citisportsonline.com
