Everyone is now seeing me as a bad person, Nobody even wants to hear my own side of the Story, I’m not supposed to say this but I will say it to clear the air now”, Mikel Arteta finally REVEALED what really happened between Him and Thomas Partey in the dressing room that lead to His sudden DEPARTURE
In a stunning and emotional press conference today at London Colney, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has finally broken his silence on the controversy surrounding Thomas Partey’s sudden departure from the club — revealing the dressing room incident that sparked weeks of speculation and media scrutiny.
For months, Arsenal fans and pundits have debated the reasons behind Partey’s unexpected exit from the Emirates, with conflicting stories circulating about a bust-up, disciplinary issues, and behind-the-scenes disagreements. But this afternoon, Arteta addressed the issue head-on.
Visibly emotional as he faced the media, Arteta confessed:
> “Everyone is now seeing me as a bad person. Nobody even wants to hear my own side of the story. I’ve kept quiet out of respect for the club and the people involved, but I’m not supposed to say this — I will say it now to clear the air.”
The Arsenal boss then revealed that tensions between himself and Partey had been building quietly for months, primarily over tactical disagreements and the midfielder’s frustration with his role in Arteta’s evolving system.
According to Arteta:
> “There was a moment in the dressing room after a match — I won’t mention the opponent — when emotions were very high. Thomas felt he wasn’t being trusted enough in big games. He spoke out in front of the squad, and words were exchanged between us. It wasn’t something I wanted, but it happened.”
Arteta admitted the situation escalated beyond a normal disagreement.
> “I tried to explain my decisions as a coach. But sometimes, when emotions are running high, people say things they later regret. We had different views about the direction of the team and his role within it.”
Following the incident, it became clear to both parties that continuing together would be difficult, leading to Partey’s eventual decision to seek a move away from the club.
Arteta added:
> “I respect Thomas as a footballer and as a man. This was never about personal hatred. I only ever wanted what’s best for Arsenal. But sometimes, in this job, you have to make tough decisions. I wish him the very best for his future.”
The revelation has sent shockwaves through the Arsenal fanbase, with supporters divided over the situation. While some are applauding Arteta for finally setting the record straight, others believe the club should have handled the matter more transparently from the outset.
Thomas Partey, who recently completed a move to a European club yet to be officially named, has yet to respond to Arteta’s comments.
One thing is certain — the truth is finally out. And while the chapter has now closed on Partey’s Arsenal career, today’s press conference will likely be remembered as one of the most brutally honest moments of Mikel Arteta’s managerial tenure.