Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has embraced the return of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the crucial Champions League return clash against Paris Saint Germain.
The Gunners fell short to the French giants after succumbing to a 1-0 defeat in the semifinal first leg clash, held at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.
Arsenal lost Partey for the epic clash due to suspension after picking up a yellow card in their game against Real Madrid.
Without Partey’s composure, physical presence, and ability to drive forward from midfield, Arsenal struggled to assert control in the early exchanges and were punished just four minutes in when Ousmane Dembele swept home Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s low cross.
Despite the setback, Arteta remains confident about his outfit chances, embracing the return of influential midfielder Partey for the match.
Asked about what the Ghana international bring on board ahead of the return leg, Arteta said, “He gives us options, a different threat in the box, having the possibility to play Mikel there.”
Meanwhile, the former Manchester City assistant coach believes Declan Rice and Mikel Merino lived up to expectations in Partey’s absence.
