Partey is currently in the final year of his contract with the Gunners, with the club yet to decide on extending his deal or otherwise.
However, the Ghana international has been ever-present in Arteta’s team this season, having started all six of their Premier League matches.
Partey’s rich vein of form has hasn’t gone unnoticed, though, and the Arsenal manager believes he worked hard to get to this level after being blighted by injuries in the past.
Mikel Arteta impressed with Thomas Partey's physical condition
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Southampton on Tuesday, Arteta said Partey returned from holidays in the best condition he’s ever been.
"He's a key player for us, he's massive player and we can see that week in week out,” the Gunners boss stated.
"The way he came back post-holidays was probably the best condition that he’s been. Now it’s about managing him.”
Meanwhile, Arteta has previously said he was very happy with Partey’s performances for Arsenal, although he refused to discuss the Ghanaian’s future.
“We need him. He’s a top player and important for us, you could see the other day on the pitch the impact that he can have for us. He’s our player, he’s got one more year’s contract and I’m really happy with him,” he said at the start of the season.
Partey will be hoping to continue with his imperious form when Arsenal host Southampton at the Emirates before joining his country for a double-header AFCON qualifier against Sudan next week.