Africa-Press – Mauritius. Former Arsenal defender William Gallas has expressed his confusion over the club’s reported decision to part ways with Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey and sign Brentford captain Christian Norgaard as his replacement.
Speaking in an interview recently the Frenchman, who made over 100 appearances for the Gunners, questioned the logic behind the transfer—particularly given the similarities in profile between the two players.
“I just don’t understand why Arsenal are signing Christian Norgaard and are letting Thomas Partey go,” Gallas said. “For me, it doesn’t make sense to them let him leave and spend £10 million on a replacement that is a year younger.”
Partey, who joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid, has endured an injury-hit spell in North London but remains one of the club’s most experienced and technically gifted midfielders when fit. Norgaard, 30, has been a standout for Brentford but lacks UEFA Champions League experience and hasn’t featured regularly at the top end of the table.
Gallas, known for his no-nonsense defending and outspoken views, believes the Gunners would have been better off holding onto Partey or investing in a younger, more future-oriented signing.
“I think it would have made more sense to keep Partey or sign a youngster,” he added. “Not go like for like with a new player that will have no sell-on value.”
The move has sparked debate among Arsenal fans, especially with the club aiming to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title and make a deeper run in Europe next season.
While Mikel Arteta has made several astute signings in recent years, Gallas’ comments reflect a growing concern about the club’s midfield depth and long-term planning.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Arsenal’s decision to shift Partey and bring in Norgaard may well be judged by how much impact the Dane can make—and whether Partey finds form and fitness elsewhere.
For More News And Analysis About Mauritius Follow Africa-Press
