Partey hails Simeone’s impact on his rise at Atletico Madrid

Thomas Partey has paid glowing tribute to Diego Simeone, crediting the Atletico Madrid manager for shaping his mentality and pushing him to reach his full potential during their time together in Spain.

The Ghanaian midfielder, who spent five seasons under the Argentine tactician, believes Simeone’s intense demands and singular focus on winning brought out the best in him.

“He’s a coach that brings the best out of you mentally. Because he knows when you are strong here, you can always give your best,” Partey said in an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey.

Partey was promoted to the Atletico Madrid first team in July 2015 and went on to make 188 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 16 goals and registering 12 assists before moving to Arsenal in 2020.

Reflecting on his time in Madrid, he described Simeone as a manager who values work ethic above flair.

“You don’t need to be extra or anything, you just have to win. He even wants his striker to come and defend at the back,” he added.