Thomas Partey moved to the Emirates Stadium from Atletico Madrid after Arsenal activated his £45million release clause on Deadline Day.
And during a Q&A with his new club, the Ghana midfielder named compatriot Michael Essien – who made 256 appearances for London rivals Chelsea – as his hero.
Explaining his decision, the 27-year-old said: “He is one of the best players Ghana has ever had.”
But the Ghanaian did not stop there in his praise of Essien, going on to name the Premier League and Champions League winner as the best player of all time.
Asked to name his pick for the greatest footballer ever, Partey responded: “I would say Michael Essien, because he is my hero and he is my idol.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said Partey is in contention for the trip to Manchester City on Saturday evening.
This article was most recently revised and updated 2 years ago
