Recent comments from Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko about Thomas Partey’s exceptional abilities have reignited the discussion about the Premier League’s top holding midfielder.
Zinchenko shared his perspective on the “Vibe with Five” podcast hosted by Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, stating that Partey is the most underappreciated player in the Premier League.
“I think Thomas Partey,” he said when asked who is the most underrated player in the league.
His answer triggered a question from Ferdinand, who asked whether Partey is better than Manchester United midfielder Casemiro.
“He’s absolutely world-class as well, Casemiro; he’s won five Champions Leagues but for me, if you want me to choose one, it’s Thomas Partey.”
The Ukrainian further chose Partey over his former Manchester City teammates Rodri and Fernandinho as the best holding midfielder he has played with
“I have a debate in my head: Who is actually the best holding midfielder I ever played with? The debate was between Fernandinho, Thomas Partey, and Rodri, but Thomas Partey, I don’t know, but it is.”
While answering a follow-up question on who is better between Rodri and Partey, Zinchenko said Partey has everything, while Rodri is a perfect fit for Manchester City’s system.
“He (Thomas Parety) has everything. Rodri is absolutely fit so well for the City’s system. If you take him out, it’s a different City. He is like the main detail there because for me at City, it is the hardest position to play.
“It’s the hardest and Rodri suits it so well. Yes, honestly.”
The debate over the finest holding midfielder in the league, involving Partey, Casemiro, and Rodri, seems to be an ongoing one since it originated during the 2022/2023 season.
These three players showcased remarkable performances throughout the previous season and have already begun the new season impressively.