Spanish La Liga club Villarreal has moved to address mounting public scrutiny over their new signing, Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, who is battling serious criminal charges in the United Kingdom.
Partey, 32, joined the Yellow Submarine on a free transfer after his Arsenal contract expired in June. But the announcement quickly ignited controversy when it emerged that the former Atlético Madrid star faces five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In a statement released this week, Villarreal stressed that they were aware of the case and underscored the principle of presumption of innocence. “The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England,” the statement noted. “The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him.”
Citing restrictions under English law, the club said it could not provide additional comment. “Due to the law in England in relation to the ongoing proceedings the club is unable to comment further,” it added.
The charges stem from a Metropolitan Police investigation launched in February 2022. Earlier this week, Partey appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court and was granted conditional bail, which bars him from contacting the alleged victims and requires him to notify authorities about any change of residence or foreign travel.
News of his signing has divided opinion among fans, with close to 1,000 supporters adding their names to an online petition, initiated by the Villarreal Report, calling on the club to reverse its decision. Responding to the backlash, Villarreal reaffirmed its stance on core values. “Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals,” the club’s statement continued.
Partey is expected to train with his new teammates on Friday as pre-season preparations ramp up. His next court date is set for September 2 at the Old Bailey.
The transfer was finalised just 24 hours after Villarreal edged Arsenal 3-2 in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium.
