Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has lauded teammate Thomas Partey, describing the Ghanaian international as an underrated figure who brings invaluable composure to the squad.
Rice’s remarks came ahead of Arsenal’s decisive UEFA Champions League semifinal second-leg tie against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, in France.
Partey, who missed the first leg due to suspension, was notably absent as Arsenal struggled in the early stages of the match in Paris.
PSG capitalized on their dominance, scoring the game’s only goal through Ousmane Dembélé in the fourth minute. Arsenal now face the daunting task of overturning a 1-0 deficit in the return leg.
Speaking about his partnership with the Ghana deputy captain, Rice praised Partey’s stabilizing presence in midfield.
“The best thing about playing with Thomas [Partey] is the calmness he brings to play with the team,” Rice said.
“Before I came to Arsenal there was so much talk about how good he is. He doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves.
“I am quite lucky Thomas is there and he lets me roam up and down.”
Partey’s contract with Arsenal is set to expire in a few months, and discussions between his representatives and the club over an extension are reportedly ongoing.
The 31-year-old joined the Gunners from Atlético Madrid in 2020 and has remained a central figure in the squad when fit.
His return for the semifinal clash is expected to be a major boost as Arsenal aim to reach their first Champions League final since 2006.
