Villarreal CF has announced the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey on a one-year contract, with an option for an additional year. The 32-year-old joins the Spanish club after his contract with Arsenal expired in June 2025. Partey has undergone a medical examination and is expected to integrate into Villarreal’s squad imminently.
The move comes amid serious legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to alleged incidents involving three women between 2021 and 2022. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025, where he was granted conditional bail. Partey has consistently denied all charges against him.
Villarreal’s official statement addressed the legal situation, emphasizing the club’s respect for the presumption of innocence. The statement read, “The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him. The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case.”
The signing has sparked significant controversy among Villarreal supporters. Many fans have expressed strong opposition, with some describing the potential acquisition as the “darkest day in the club’s history.” A petition urging the club to halt the transfer has garnered hundreds of signatures, reflecting the deep divisions within the fanbase.
Despite the legal challenges, Partey brings a wealth of experience to Villarreal. During his tenure at Arsenal, he made 167 appearances, scoring nine goals. His previous experience in La Liga with Atlético Madrid, where he won the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Super Cup in 2018, adds to his credentials.
Villarreal’s decision to sign Partey underscores the club’s ambition to strengthen its midfield ahead of the upcoming La Liga season. However, the move also highlights the complex interplay between player performance, legal issues, and fan sentiment in football transfers.
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