Ghana Offer Explanation for Dropping 'Incredible' Arsenal Star From Latest Squad

Thomas Partey will not play for Ghana in their upcoming friendly matches against Nigeria and Uganda. The Arsenal star is edging closer to full recovery ahead of the final phase of the campaign.

Arsenal Midfielder to Stay in London During the International Break

When Was Partey Injured?

Mikel Arteta started Partey in all three opening games of the Premier League season. However, a string of fitness setbacks prevented the Ghanaian midfielder from retaining his place in the squad.

Shortly after recovering from a groin issue early in the term, Partey was sidelined with a serious thigh injury that forced him to go under the knife. The 30-year-old was set to make his return in February, but an injury relapse once again delayed his comeback.

An Injury Boost for Arsenal

Partey was set to play for Ghana in their upcoming friendly matches against Nigeria and Uganda. However, the Black Stars did not include him in their 26-man list for the international break.

In a statement, Ghana revealed that Partey “asked to be excused from the game to gain full fitness following recent injuries.”

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners appreciated the decision as they want their “incredible” midfielder to be fully fit for the final two months of the campaign.

More Players to Stay at Emirates

Partey is not the only Arsenal star to stay at the club during the international break.

Takehiro Tomiyasu is out of Japan’s squad for their two-legged tie against North Korea in the World Cup qualifiers. The right-back is yet to play for the Gunners since returning from the Asian Cup in February.

Gabriel Martinelli, who has missed his side’s last two games with a foot injury, will also stay at the club. The Brazilian striker hopes to complete his recovery before Arsenal take on Manchester City in their first game after the international break.

Ben White will also stay at Emirates as he won’t play for England in friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. Gareth Southgate has dropped White from his squad upon the defender’s request.

Arsenal’s Schedule After International Break

The Gunners will face Manchester City in one of their most crucial matches of the season on March 30. They will then take on Luton Town and Brighton in two more Premier League games before hosting Bayern Munich in the Champions League on April 3.

A Premier League clash against Aston Villa precedes the second-leg fixture against Bayern Munich at Allianz Arena. Arsenal’s brutal schedule in April ends with a match against Wolves and the North London derby.