flobaba But you're not advocating that, which suggests to me this isn't purely a football conversation (and tbf you haven't tried to be subtle about it)
Yeah, I've been very clear on my opinion about Partey's off field issues … so the idea I'm making this football argument as a smokescreen for my real agenda is off base. I'm just walking and chewing gum here.
I argued for relegating Zinchenko to a squad utility role (ideal for him given his versatility and professionalism).
I argued we should bring in stronger competition for Jesus or test Martinelli out centrally, because Nketiah wasn't good enough to put the burners under Jesus. Trossard's gone some way to helping there.
But then, both Jesus and Zinchenko are 26 and signed fresh contracts a year ago.
I argued we should sell Xhaka in summer 2022, because his form had improved in the back half of 21–22, but he was never gonna do more than hold us back. Well, we had to retune our whole midfield and attack to make Xhaka look good, we won nothing, and despite his redemption arc, he was mostly crap when we needed him.
We'll need to shift Partey next summer anyway. I reckon get the money now and move on, his presence or absence won't secure us trophies (yes I did read your argument Quince).
