Partey Ready For New Challenge With Arsenal, Eyes Premier League Title

Thomas Partey knows there is a lot of expectations riding on his shoulders. There is a reason why Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was adamant about getting him, and it appears the 27-year-old is ready to prove him right. Though he has yet to settle in, the Ghanaian midfielder is ready for the challenge of helping the Gunners win more trophies.

That journey starts this weekend when the Gunners face Manchester City. However, there is no telling if Arteta will immediately field in Partey against the Sky Blues. A reason for this is that the Ghanaian has only recently started training with the Gunners. Arsenal fans may not yet see the reason why Arteta wanted Partey at Emirates Stadium.

"For me it's a great feeling. I like to play in the big matches, but it all depends on the coach and whether he wants me to play on Saturday or not," Partey said via ESPN. "It's the decision of Mikel [Arteta]. I just arrived. For me, I'm prepared but I need to get used to the style of play before I can play."

Partey had his first training session with Arsenal on Wednesday after returning from international duty with Ghana. It may take time for him to adjust to his new teammates, but he said he will be ready to play if Arteta fields him in, Goal reported.

"I need to get used to the squad and then train before we can see what will happen," Partey said. "It’s the decision of Mikel. I just arrived. I'm prepared but I need to get used to the style of play."

The last time the Gunners lifted the Premier League trophy was in 2004. That was the time when Arsene Wenger was still around, going through an entire season without a loss. They are coming off a poor season where they finished eighth, trailing eventual champions Liverpool by 43 points.

Whether or not the midfielder plays this Saturday, Arteta knows what Partey brings to Emirates Stadium. He had spoken highly of his new player in a previous interview.

"We believe he has the right qualities, with his character and his personality and as well with his technical qualities and positional options that he can give to the team," Arteta said of Partey.