Arsenal FC head coach Mikel Arteta says pairing Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey and English midfielder Declan Rice at the heart of the Gunners midfield is in his plans.
He said this in an interview at New York City’s MetLife Stadium during the team’s preseason tour of the United States of America.
Rice was signed for 105 million Pounds with potential add-ons from fellow EPL and London side West Ham United this offseason.
The 24 year old joined Arsenal after starring in West Ham’s UEFA Europa Conference League 2-1 win over Fiorentina in the final.
His signing have led many to question the future of Partey at the club since both players thrive as the pivot in a three man midfield unit Arteta uses heavily in setting up his team tactically.
Despite the addition of Rice, Arteta believes Declan and Partey can play together and went on to state that seeing this happen is in his plans for the upcoming season.
“Thomas is a super important player for us and for me. I want him to be part of the team. That’s for sure. Yeah. They can play together. That was in my plans… That’s why we bought Declan as well” Arteta said.
Partey joined Arsenal late in the US while Rice played for the first time since joining Arsenal in a 5-0 win over the MLS All Star Team.
Arsenal takes on Nottingham Forest on August 12.