Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has opened up emotionally just days before the club’s monumental Champions League final against Real Madrid, revealing a crushing injury update that has left him devastated.
In a candid and heartfelt moment, Partey admitted that despite his tough personality and reputation for resilience, the latest news from the club’s doctors has brought him to tears.
Speaking after leaving a training session early, the 31-year-old Ghanaian international confessed, “I’m a very strong guy and everyone knows that, but I’ve been crying since yesterday due to what the doctor said about my injury.”
These words have struck a chord with fans and fellow players alike, as Partey had been working tirelessly to recover in time for what could be the biggest match of his football career — the Champions League final at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Throughout a season marred by injuries, Partey had remained focused on making a comeback, hoping to play a pivotal role in helping Arsenal capture their first-ever Champions League title.
Seen as a potential game-changer due to his power, intelligence, and experience, Partey was part of Mikel Arteta’s tactical plan to take on the Spanish giants — a team he admired as a young boy growing up in Ghana.
However, sources close to the club now suggest that Partey’s dream of participating in the final is slipping away.
Behind the scenes, medical assessments have revealed worrying signs about a recurring muscle issue.
During a private meeting, the club’s medical staff reportedly advised Partey against playing, warning that forcing a return could result in a more severe setback — potentially ruling him out of the start of next season as well.
This news has understandably shaken Partey, who had hoped to use the final as a stage to prove his worth and complete his comeback.
His emotional reaction shows the weight of the moment — it’s not just about missing a match, but about seeing months of effort and determination possibly go unrewarded.
Known for keeping his personal battles private, Partey’s vulnerability has only highlighted how much the final means to him.
“To be told you might not be part of the biggest game of your life, after fighting so hard to be here — it breaks something inside you,” someone close to him shared.
If ruled out, Partey’s absence will force Arteta to make adjustments in midfield, relying on players like Declan Rice and Jorginho to hold things together.
While they offer consistency, Partey’s unique skill set would certainly be missed on such a high-stakes occasion.
Despite the setback, Partey is expected to travel with the squad to Madrid.
His presence in the dressing room could be a source of inspiration for his teammates as they prepare for the club’s most important night in decades.
Even if he doesn’t play, Partey’s story has added emotional depth to Arsenal’s European journey — and fans everywhere are hoping the team can deliver a performance worthy of his fight.
