Arsenal’s newest signing, Thomas Partey, has given a reflection on his childhood and teenage years with his move from Ghana to Spain in 2011, the move that paces him to career success. The gunners’ new recruit has lifted the lid on the circumstances surrounding his switch from Ghana to Europe as a teenager. The 27-year-old, who signed a long-term contract with the north London outfit last month, told the BBC’s Football Daily podcast about how he left his native Ghana behind to pursue a career in Europe after being offered a trial at Atletico Madrid.
He was plying his trade at second-division side, Tema Youth, before he was noticed by scouts from the Spanish side, and promptly upped sticks in order to chase his dreams.
“It was a great moment, you know,” he reflected. “I was in Ghana playing for a second division team, and we qualified for the Premier League and I think most of the young people like me wanted to play in the Ghanian Premier League because it was a dream.
“But then, it was like ‘I need to go to Europe’ because this is what I watch on TV, and I want to be like those I see on TV.
“When the opportunity came I just said ‘okay, I want this, I want this challenge’ and I took it.”
Growing up in Ghana, Partey looked to none other than national team stalwart Michael Essien as his role model.
The former Chelsea man is one of the country’s finest ever footballing exports, and Partey’s admiration for his childhood idol is clear to see.
“He was one of the best midfielders Ghana already had,” he continued.
“He still, I think, did so many things and I think I need to break his record in the national team!
“But it’s difficult because he had a lot of respect he’d command from the back, he’s strong on the ball and mentally he’s very disciplined.
“I think he’s a good person to be your idol.”
Partey has since made two appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side since his summer move. He expressed gratitude to his new teammates after they welcomed him to the club with open arms.
“It’s great, I’m adapting really quick,” he said when quizzed on life at the North London club.
“The players are so nice, they help you a lot to adapt really quick and I think it’s the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.”
