Thomas Partey Set for Arsenal Return After Illness, Misses Key Ghana AFCON Qualifiers

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is expected to return to action for Arsenal this weekend after recovering from an illness that kept him sidelined during the Black Stars’ crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sudan.

The midfielder, who remained in London during the international break, was forced to miss Ghana’s matches due to his illness. The Black Stars drew 0-0 with Sudan in Accra before suffering a 2-0 defeat in Libya, a result that has placed their AFCON 2025 qualification hopes in serious jeopardy.

However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed Partey’s recovery and his availability for their upcoming Premier League match against Bournemouth on Saturday, October 19. “Thomas Partey is fit and ready. As for Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz, we will decide today,” Arteta stated. He also provided updates on the fitness of other players, including Ben White, Timber, and Zinchenko, who are nearing a return.

Partey’s absence was deeply felt by the Black Stars, with Mohammed Kudus stepping up as captain in his place. Following the disappointing results, Kudus issued an apology on behalf of the team for their underwhelming performances during the October international break.

Ghana’s 2025 AFCON qualification hopes have taken a hit, with the team now facing an uphill battle to secure a place in the tournament, which will be held in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Ghana last missed out on competing in an AFCON back in 2004.

With Partey now back in action for Arsenal, fans will be hoping he regains top form as the Premier League giants look to maintain their competitive momentum, while Ghanaian supporters will eagerly await his return to the national team fold for future AFCON qualifiers.