William Gallas has criticised Arsenal’s decision to release Thomas Partey on a free transfer, questioning the logic behind replacing him with a similarly aged player.
Partey, 32, is no longer under contract with the North London club after talks over a possible extension failed to materialise.
The Ghanaian midfielder, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020, now finds himself a free agent as the club turns to new options in midfield.
In response to the club’s decision, Arsenal opted to sign 31-year-old Christian Nørgaard from Brentford for a reported £10 million fee—a move that former Gunners defender William Gallas finds difficult to justify.
“It makes no sense to let Partey go and spend £10 million on a replacement a year younger,” Gallas told reporters. The 47-year-old Frenchman, who spent four years at Arsenal during his playing career, expressed frustration at what he perceives as a lack of clear long-term strategy.
“I think it would have been more logical to keep Partey or sign a young player, rather than acting as if nothing had happened with a new player who would have no market value,” he added.
Gallas, who has often voiced strong opinions about his former club, believes Partey’s experience and quality still held significant value for Arsenal, particularly as they aim to remain competitive in the Premier League and Europe.
He views the decision to part ways with the midfielder as one of the more questionable moves of the summer.
Partey endured an injury-hit final season at the Emirates but remained a popular figure among sections of the fanbase and was seen by many as a player who could still contribute when fit.
His departure leaves a void in midfield, especially considering his tactical versatility and experience at the top level.
The Ghana international is already attracting interest from major European clubs.
Reports suggest both Barcelona and Atlético Madrid—his former side—are among those keeping close tabs on his situation.
Arsenal, meanwhile, continue their summer rebuild under Mikel Arteta.
But Gallas’ criticism has added another voice to a growing debate over whether the club’s current transfer decisions are in line with their long-term ambitions.
As Partey prepares for the next chapter of his career, Arsenal’s choice to let him go for free remains a divisive topic.
