“I’d Choose Partey Over Myself in Their Prime”- Michael Essien
Former Ghana international Michael Essien has acknowledged that Thomas Partey surpasses him as a midfielder, drawing comparisons between their playing styles and contributions to the game. Essien, once considered one of the Premier League’s finest, has openly praised the current Arsenal star during an interview with Sporty FM.
Essien, who enjoyed a stellar career that included stints at Bastia, Lyon, and Chelsea—where he won the UEFA Champions League and two Premier League titles—expressed admiration for Partey, Ghana’s deputy captain. Since joining Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020, Partey has made a significant impact in the Premier League, solidifying his role as a key player for both club and country.
Reflecting on his own career, Essien stated, “Between myself and Thomas Partey in prime, I don’t think I will pick myself. I will go for Partey. He is a fantastic midfielder, you know. He is a talented player making waves in Europe.”
Essien’s humility shines through as he acknowledges the changing of the guard within the Black Stars, Ghana’s national team. “He is one player I’d like to play alongside, but it will never happen. It is their time at the Black Stars now, so we have to support them and hopefully, they can take it from where we left off,” he added.
Essien’s endorsement of Partey underscores the midfielder’s rising status in the sport with both players having made significant contributions to the national team.
