Thomas Partey is back at the Emirates today to sign a one-year contract extension with Arsenal, amid speculation that the Ghanaian has been in London since yesterday undergoing an Arsenal medical.
The Emirates Stadium is buzzing with excitement this January 11, 2026. Thomas Partey, the Ghanaian midfielder who has defined an era at Arsenal since his arrival in 2020, is back at the club’s facilities to put pen to paper on a new one-year deal.
Speculation has been constant over the past few hours: the player is believed to have arrived in London yesterday to undergo extensive medical examinations, a key step before formalizing his continuity with the Gunners.
This news represents an unexpected twist in Partey’s career in North London. After months of uncertainty, recurring injuries, and debates about his future, Arsenal have decided to place their trust once again in his experience and technical quality.
The club, which has built a competitive project under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, sees the 32-year-old as a fundamental pillar to maintain its title ambitions in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Partey’s journey at Arsenal: From hope to challenge
Thomas Teye Partey joined Arsenal on October 5, 2020, from Atlético Madrid in a transfer that activated his €50 million release clause. At the time, he became the most expensive Ghanaian footballer in history.
His signing generated huge expectations: a complete player with vision, ball-winning ability, and a powerful shot from distance. At Atlético, he had won the Europa League (2018), the UEFA Super Cup, and finished runner-up in the Champions League (2016).
However, his time at the Emirates has not been smooth sailing. Muscle injuries have been his biggest enemy. In several seasons, Partey struggled to play more than 25–30 matches. Even so, when available, his impact has been undeniable.
In the 2024/25 campaign, he enjoyed a resurgence, playing more than 50 matches in all competitions and showing leadership and consistency in midfield. Arteta publicly praised him as a key element in the tactical system, capable of playing as a defensive pivot or even as a right-back in emergencies.
Contract expiry, departure, and a surprise return
Partey’s original contract expired in June 2025. For months, negotiations appeared stalled. The club offered a short renewal (one year with an option for another), with salary adjustments due to his injury record and age.
Partey, meanwhile, wanted guarantees of playing time and a salary befitting his status. Talks failed to produce an immediate agreement, and the player left the club as a free agent.
He signed for Villarreal in the summer of 2025, seeking regular minutes and a return to La Liga.
But fate had other plans. Partey’s adaptation at Villarreal did not go as expected. Minor physical issues and competition in midfield meant his role was more limited than anticipated.
Meanwhile, at Arsenal, the 2025/26 season has begun with ups and downs in midfield. Injuries to key players and the need for experience in big matches led Mikel Arteta and the board to reconsider their decision.
Secret talks began in December 2025, and now, in January, they have materialized in this surprise return.
Medical checks and an imminent signing
According to sources close to the club, Partey arrived in London on Friday, January 10, to undergo a full medical assessment at London Colney and the Emirates. The examinations, which lasted several hours, included endurance tests, MRI scans, and cardiovascular evaluations.
Everything suggests the results were positive, allowing the contract to be signed today.
The new deal would run for one season (until June 2027), with an automatic extension option based on appearances and performance. His salary would be reduced compared to his previous contract but would include bonuses tied to collective objectives.
It is a calculated gamble: Arsenal regain a player who knows the club inside out, without the need for an adaptation period.
Impact on the team and the fans
This return has set social media alight. Thousands of Gunners fans are celebrating with messages like “Welcome back legend” and “Partey, Partey, Partey!”. Despite criticism over his injuries, the Ghanaian midfielder has always shared a special bond with the supporters.
His professionalism and quality when fit make him a fan favorite.
For Mikel Arteta, this addition is pure gold. The Spanish coach has stressed the importance of squad depth to compete on multiple fronts. With Partey, Arsenal gain a midfielder capable of dictating tempo, breaking lines with vertical passes, and providing defensive balance.
Moreover, his leadership in the dressing room will be vital in a season where the team aims to end its league title drought.
The legacy of a Ghanaian warrior
Thomas Partey is more than just a footballer. He is a symbol of perseverance. From his loan debut at Mallorca, through his rise at Atlético Madrid, to his arrival in the Premier League, he has shown that raw talent combined with hard work can overcome any obstacle.
With the Ghana national team, he has been captain and a key figure in tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2022 World Cup. His return to Arsenal is a second chance to write the perfect ending to his time in England.
Today, at the Emirates, the flags wave higher. The chants of “North London forever” ring louder. Thomas Partey is back, ready to keep fighting.
Welcome back, legend! The Emirates welcomes you with open arms. May this new chapter be filled with trophies, goals, and above all, good health.
