Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shown unwavering support for Thomas Partey following the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 loss to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Saturday. Though the match ended with Alexander Isak scoring from an assist by Anthony Gordon, Arteta highlighted Partey’s adaptability and praised his effort in an unconventional role.

Partey initially took up the right-back position, a role he’s played several times this season due to Arsenal’s limited options in defense. However, in the second half, Arteta moved the Ghanaian midfielder back to his natural central role after introducing Oleksandr Zinchenko and young talent Ethan Nwaneri.

While some fans voiced frustration with Arteta’s tactical choices and questioned Partey’s performance, the Arsenal manager defended his decision. “I’ll need to make that assessment once I have more clarity about where he struggled, but I don’t have the impression he struggled much,” Arteta said. He emphasized that Partey has consistently shown his quality, even when playing out of position, adding, “Thomas is fantastic.”

With a packed schedule ahead, Arsenal looks to bounce back in their upcoming Champions League clash against Inter Milan at the San Siro on Wednesday, followed by a London derby against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.