by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has opened up about the immense challenges of facing world-class opponents during his time in La Liga, particularly highlighting the genius of Lionel Messi and the relentless drive of Cristiano Ronaldo.
In a recent interview, Partey reflected on the daunting task of playing against Barcelona at their peak. “Playing against Messi is very difficult,” he admitted. “You are not only playing against Messi. You are playing against Iniesta, Busquets, Xavi, and the others.”
The former Atlético Madrid star explained that Barcelona’s strength went far beyond Messi’s brilliance — it was the collective threat that made them so dangerous. “You stay with Messi, and someone else scores,” Partey remarked, capturing the unpredictability and fluidity of Barça’s attack.
He also spoke about the challenge of facing Cristiano Ronaldo during his Real Madrid days. “He is a machine who is focused on goals; he only wants to score,” Partey said, underlining Ronaldo’s tunnel-vision for finding the net.
Currently at Arsenal, Partey is in the spotlight once again as his contract nears its end in June. While speculation swirls about his next move, his reflections on the past offer fans a rare insight into what it’s like to face two of football’s greatest icons.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has showered legendary Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo with admiration, describing him as a “machine” driven by an unstoppable hunger for goals.
Speaking in an interview with Ghanaian broadcaster Kafui Dey, Partey recounted his experience facing Ronaldo during his early career stint at Spanish side Almeria. The now 40-year-old Ronaldo, then at the peak of his powers with Real Madrid, left a lasting impression on Partey after netting twice in their two encounters.
“He is a machine who is focused on goals; he only wants to score,” Partey stated. “You can dominate all you want, but they get the ball, feed Ronaldo and boom—he scores. That’s how dangerous he is.”
Partey also reflected on the unique challenge of going up against Lionel Messi, stressing that facing Barcelona in its golden era was like trying to solve a complex puzzle.
“You’re not only playing against Messi. You’re playing against Iniesta, Busquets, Xavi, and the others. It’s a complete team,” Partey explained, pointing to the multifaceted threat posed by the Catalan giants.
His remarks are a reminder of just how overwhelming it was to face two of football’s greatest icons at the height of their dominance.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey appears set to leave Arsenal this summer, with Turkish giants Fenerbahce emerging as a possible destination amid growing uncertainty over his future.
The 31-year-old’s contract with the Gunners is set to expire on June 30, and despite preliminary discussions over a renewal, no agreement has been reached. According to Sportsblog247.com, Arsenal have now offered Partey to several clubs, including Fenerbahce, as they prepare to part ways with the experienced midfielder.
Fenerbahce are reportedly monitoring the situation closely but could face competition from other European and Middle Eastern sides also tracking the former Atletico Madrid star.
Partey is coming off his most active season since joining the north London club, featuring in 52 matches across all competitions. He contributed four goals and three assists, solidifying his role in Mikel Arteta’s setup during their title and European campaigns.
With multiple offers on the table, Partey is expected to make a decision soon. He is currently vacationing in Ghana following the end of the 2024/25 season.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey could be on his way out of the Emirates, with contract renewal talks reportedly breaking down ahead of the June 30 deadline.
According to CaughtOffside, discussions between Partey’s representatives and Arsenal have hit a deadlock, largely due to wage demands. The Ghanaian is seeking a raise on his current £200,000-a-week deal, but the club appears reluctant to meet those terms.
The 32-year-old had a standout 2024/25 season, featuring in 52 games across all competitions, contributing four goals and three assists. His versatility—operating both in midfield and as a right-back—earned praise from manager Mikel Arteta, who is eager to retain him despite a likely midfield reinforcement in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
But with no progress in talks, Partey’s agent has reportedly informed Arsenal that his client will exit if a new offer isn’t tabled. This has alerted European giants Fenerbahce and AC Milan—both of whom have made formal offers. Partey is believed to have spoken directly with Jose Mourinho and Massimiliano Allegri, the newly appointed managers of the respective clubs.
With just days remaining on his contract, sources close to the situation suggest there’s now only a 50/50 chance the Ghanaian stays in North London. Should he depart, Arsenal are expected to turn their attention to replacements, with Sevilla’s Lucien Agoumé reportedly on their radar.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 19, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghanaian international Baba Rahman has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to step up its game in the planning and management of the Ghana Premier League, stressing that strategic improvements could unlock the league’s true potential.
Speaking in an interview with Joy Sports, the PAOK left-back said the problem with the local league isn’t a lack of talent, but poor organization and planning — factors he believes have hurt club performances, especially in continental competitions.
> “The challenges in our league aren’t due to a lack of talent — there are genuinely good players competing,” Rahman noted. “But when it comes to continental competitions, we often fall short. The real problem lies in planning and organization. Improving these areas is crucial to attracting fans and helping our clubs perform better.”
With the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season set to begin on September 12, Rahman’s comments come at a crucial time, as clubs and stakeholders prepare for another campaign.
