Arsenal are getting ready for one of many greatest nights of their season as they journey to the Santiago Bernabéu for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final in opposition to Actual Madrid.
With a commanding 3-0 benefit from the primary leg on the Emirates courtesy of two magical free-kicks from Declan Rice, the Gunners are in a robust place—however they know higher than to underestimate the European pedigree of Los Blancos.
Nonetheless, amid the build-up, issues have emerged over the health of key midfielder Thomas Partey, who went off throughout Arsenal’s current 1-1 draw with Brentford.
Partey had put in a strong efficiency, scoring the staff’s solely purpose with a composed end after a fast counter-attack initiated by David Raya and carried ahead by Declan Rice.
His substitution shortly after discovering the online raised alarm bells, particularly with such an important fixture simply days away.
Charles Watts: Thomas Partey’s absence could be a ‘main blow’ to Arsenal
In accordance with Arsenal professional Charles Watts, that whereas there’s not an excessive amount of concern about whether or not the damage will have an effect on him enjoying vs Madrid, his absence shall be a ‘main blow’ for the Gunners.
Talking on his YouTube channel, Watts mentioned:
“From my understanding, and it’s very, very early days, initially is that it’s precaution and there isn’t an excessive amount of concern that it’s going to have an effect on him enjoying in opposition to Actual Madrid in midweek.
“Thomas Partey would undoubtedly begin in opposition to Actual Madrid if he was match, so if he was out it will be a significant, main blow to Arsenal – the way in which he was enjoying within the first-leg.
“However sure, my understanding and really preliminary prognosis of why Thomas Partey went off is that he felt one thing just a little bit worrying and so they didn’t wish to take any probabilities.”
Partey’s potential absence could be a major blow for Mikel Arteta. The 31-year-old was instrumental in Arsenal’s dominant first-leg efficiency in opposition to Actual Madrid. In that match, he accomplished 94% of his passes (61/65), contributed a mixed xG+xA of 0.56, and was a continuing defensive presence with six recoveries, 4 duels gained, and 4 defensive actions. (FotMob)
He adopted that up with one other spectacular show in opposition to Brentford. His management in midfield and talent to hyperlink play has been essential in Arsenal’s European run.
Partey’s future on the membership stays unsure nevertheless, with earlier studies stating that plenty of golf equipment are displaying curiosity in signing the Ghanaian midfielder.
With the Gunners aiming to make historical past within the Champions League, Partey’s availability could possibly be the distinction between development and disappointment.
Arsenal followers shall be hoping he’s handed slot in time to anchor the midfield as soon as once more in Madrid.
