Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed suggestions that Thomas Partey’s deployment as a right-back is responsible for the Gunners’ recent struggles in the Premier League. Despite managing just one win in their last six matches, Arteta defended the Ghanaian midfielder’s versatility following a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa, where both goals conceded originated from his flank.

Partey, who is traditionally more impactful in midfield, has faced scrutiny for his performances in defense. Yet Arteta was quick to shield the player from blame. “I cannot judge just because one player plays in one position,” the Spaniard remarked when quizzed about Partey’s positional shift.

It appears Arteta has no plans to restore Partey to his natural midfield role, favoring the partnership of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino at the heart of Arsenal’s setup. Since joining Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey has been a pivotal figure in midfield, a role fans feel he should reclaim.

The Gunners, currently seeking consistency, face Dinamo Zagreb in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, where a win could secure their place in the knockout stage.