Gary Neville Singles Out Thomas Partey for ‘Unforgivable’ Error Against Aston Villa
- Thomas Partey faced sharp criticism from Manchester United icon Gary Neville for his role in Aston Vila's second goal
- Despite taking a commanding 2-0 lead, Arsenal saw their advantage slip away thanks to goals from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins
- Arsenal's Premier League title hopes suffered another major blow against Aston Villa on Saturday evening
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey faced harsh criticism from Gary Neville, who labelled his performance “unforgivable” during the Gunners' dramatic 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.
The Gunners appeared to be in control after goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, with the opener confirmed by goal-line technology.

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However, Villa mounted a spirited comeback. Youri Tielemans ignited the revival with a brave header from Lucas Digne’s cross, and Ollie Watkins capitalised on defensive lapses to score the equalizer just eight minutes later.
The draw leaves Arsenal six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, with defensive frailties further exposed in the absence of William Saliba due to injury.
Why Gary Neville criticised Partey
The North Londoners were cruising with a 2-1 lead against Aston Villa before a defensive error from Partey allowed Ollie Watkins to score, bringing the Midlands side level at 2-2.
In the second half, it was Partey’s defensive lapse as a makeshift full-back that drew attention, with Gary Neville singling out the Blak Stars captain for criticism.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville said:
“You can see Partey marking Watkins, and then, it's unforgivable really, that he just steps back out and doesn’t go with him. He deserved his goal
What's next for Partey and Arsenal?
Arsenal are expected to target a replacement for Thomas Partey in midfield, with Martin Zubimendi emerging as a potential option.
The Gunners will aim to bounce back from their draw with Aston Villa when they take on a struggling Wolves side in their next league match on January 25.
Mikel Arteta knows this season presents a golden opportunity to secure Arsenal's first Premier League title since 2004, especially with Manchester City underperforming by their usual standards.
Arsenal legend slams Partey for poor display vs Aston Villa
Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Paul Merson has heavily criticised Thomas Partey following the Gunners’ 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Saturday night.
Merson, speaking on Sky Sports, pointed to Partey’s poor positioning, particularly in the lead-up to Watkins’ equaliser.
The ex-England star highlighted Partey’s lack of impact and expressed frustration at his inability to adapt to the defensive demands against Villa’s relentless attack.
“He has played for one of the most disciplined defensive teams in Europe, in Atletico Madrid. He’s an older player, a defensive midfield player – he should see the danger. You cannot do that. That can’t win you league titles. It’s just phenomenal what he has done.
“I could understand if it was a young kid who just got in the team but this man has played for Atletico Madrid, one of the most disciplined defensive teams in Europe, that should be his game.
Fans react to potential Partey replacement
YEN.com.gh reported earlier growing excitement among fans about a potential move for a Spanish player as Thomas Partey’s replacement.
Partey, whose contract has only six months remaining, is yet to receive a renewal offer from Arsenal amid reported interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.
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Source: YEN.com.gh