Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has completed a shock move to La Liga side Villarreal, just days after being released on conditional bail over multiple rape charges in the UK. The 32-year-old midfielder, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for £45 million, left the Premier League club at the end of June when his contract expired.
Four days after his Arsenal exit, Partey was formally charged with five counts of rape involving two women, along with an additional charge of sexual assault against a third woman. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he pleaded not guilty and was granted conditional bail. Under his bail terms, he is prohibited from contacting the alleged victims and must notify police of any change of address or travel plans outside the UK.
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Despite the ongoing legal case, Villarreal announced Partey’s signing this week, acknowledging the controversy surrounding the move. In an official statement, the Spanish club said, “The player firmly asserts his innocence and denies all accusations. Villarreal respects the principle of presumption of innocence and will await the judicial process to clarify the facts.” The club added that, due to English legal restrictions on ongoing cases, it could not provide further comment.
Partey’s signing has sparked outrage among sections of Villarreal’s fanbase. Nearly 1,000 supporters have signed an online petition launched by the Villarreal Report, calling on the club to cancel the deal. The petition cites concerns over the message it sends to survivors of sexual violence and the wider community.
Villarreal’s statement also sought to reassure supporters of its values, stressing its commitment to “respect and diversity” and condemning “all forms of violence, including gender-based violence, racism, xenophobia, and any actions that undermine human dignity.”
The charges against Partey stem from an investigation launched in February 2022. He is due to appear at the Old Bailey on September 2 for further proceedings. In the meantime, he is expected to report for training with Villarreal on Friday, marking a controversial return to Spanish football.
His signing comes less than 24 hours after Villarreal’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Arsenal in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium, a twist of fate linking his former and new clubs in the midst of his legal battle.
