Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has credited key substitutions, including Thomas Partey, for their thrilling encounter against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.
In Tuesday night’s first-leg clash at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal initially took the lead against Bayern through Bukayo Saka. However, goals from Serge Gnabry and Harry Kane put the Gunners on the back foot.
Arteta’s tactical acumen shone through with his substitutions making a significant impact. Leandro Trossard, brought on from the bench, salvaged a 2-2 draw for Arsenal, highlighting Arteta’s astute decision-making.
Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey made his first appearance in this season’s competition, playing 10 minutes after replacing Kai Havertz. Despite missing out on earlier stages due to injuries, Partey’s contribution was notable.
Speaking in a post-match press conference, Arteta expressed satisfaction with the performance of his substitutes, including Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard, who combined for Arsenal’s second goal, along with Thomas Partey.
- Thomas Partey is a top player and important for us – Arteta
- I have to be available every time – Thomas Partey on possible contract extension
“When you bring two or three players like we have done, with Alex (Zinchenko) straight away at halftime to change a few things, and then with Leo (Trossard) and Gabby (Jesus), then Thomas (Partey) when it needs, because the game became a bit chaotic, and it was a big danger to lose it. I think they all had a big impact tonight” Arteta said according to Arsenal media.
Arteta will be hoping to get it right when the Gunners visit Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena for the second leg on April 17 in.