Whilst Nigeria's defensive midfield stalwart Wilfred Ndidi is already an established English Premer League footballer at Leicester City, his Ghanaian suave counterpart Thomas Partey (currently in Atletico Madrid) is being linked with a move to North Londoners Arsenal.
But for the breakout of the current coronavirus pandemic, the signs had been positive that Arsenal would break the bank to create a clear pathway for Partey’s transfer to the Emirates by meeting his £43.5 million release clause from Atletico Madrid. However, with this pandemic comes a financial review for the North London outfit which has put a mild cloud of doubt on the transfer. Comments from the Ghanaian international’s father have caused a stir in recent weeks. Partey’s dad Jacob told a radio station that talks were unfolding between his son and the Gunners but the player’s representatives hit back saying it was “totally untrue”. It does however seem that the desire of coach Mikel Arteta to lure the Ghana International to the Emirates Stadium hasn’t faltered which I think would explain why he hasn’t committed his future to Atletico Madrid. As a Super Eagles fan, I am usually quite reticent of discussing issues relating to Ghanaian football as I see the West African nation as Super Eagles bitterest rivals. In 49 encounters known to me against the Black Stars of Ghana, Nigeria have won 10, drawn 18 and lost a mammoth 21 times. If we meet them in Afcon 2021 in the knockout stages, it might yet turn out to be coach Rohr’s sternest test yet! The German recently came out to unequivocally assert that under his tutelage, the Super Eagles can win the 2021 Afcon. A quarter final encounter against a formidable, fierce and unforgiving foe like Ghana will put that assertion to the ultimate test!
Whilst na and Nigeria should indeed meet, it will be interesting who would win the battle of the midfield between Thomas Partey and Wilfred Ndidi. It will be a sort of clash of the titans in which the winner will take it all!