LaLiga Santander player Saul, speaking at an event for LiveScore, said: “I think he’s been very unlucky because of injuries, especially now that in the UK they are more confined like we were in Spain some months ago.
“It’s difficult because he started pre-season with us and then he left without finishing it. He tried to play every game, he got injured, then he tried to come back before the correct time.
“Everything has been a bit unfortunate, but I think next season will be a great season for him.
“I think having a coach like Arteta at Arsenal eased things a lot for him. He knows the language and it is a culture that suits him.
Thomas Partey has struggled to make the impact many were expecting at Arsenal this season, so why has he been unable to replicate his Atletico Madrid form with the Gunners?
Thomas Partey is the "kind of player Arsenal have needed for quite a long time", according to Gilberto Silva, who says the £45 million ($62m) star makes Granit Xhaka and Co look better.