Ghana coach has asked Thomas Partey not to move to English Premier League side Arsenal despite the club's intense interest in signing the midfielder this summer
Charles Kwablan Akonnor says staying with his Spanish club Atletico Madrid would help the midfielder's career as he will regularly play in the UEFA Champions League while he is not guaranteed that opportunity at Arsenal.
Akonnor would prefer his key midfielder Partey stays with Atletico than to move to England to join weakened heavyweights Arsenal.
According to Akonnor, the 27-year old should stay with Atletico Madrid where he gets the chance to play in Europe's elite competition, the UEFA Champions League.
Arsenal only managed to qualify for the Europa League, Europe's second tier competition after beating Chelsea to win the FA Cup, following a season that saw them finished eight and ten points adrift of fourth place.
"I wouldn't want Thomas Partey to move to Arsenal because with Atletico Madrid, he'll always play in the Champions League," Akonnor told Starr FM. "It will be difficult for Arsenal to qualify for the Champions League," he added.
Thomas Partey is Mikel Arteta's top transfer target, as he seeks to strengthen his side for the next season, with the aim of bridging the gap between them and the top four clubs.
The Gunners first attempt to sign the player failed after the Rojiblancos rejected their initial bid.
The Ghana midfield gem is currently in Lisbon, Portugal with his Atletico Madrid teammates for the final stages of the UEFA Champions League.
By Lukman Abdul Mumin