Spanish La Liga side Villarreal have confirmed the signing of Ghana international Thomas Partey on a two-year contract. The 32-year-old midfielder joins on a free transfer following the expiration of his deal with Arsenal at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
Partey, who played a key role in helping Arsenal reach the Champions League semifinals last season, brings a wealth of experience to the Spanish club, who have already secured qualification for next season’s edition of the competition. Villarreal expressed confidence that his leadership and quality in midfield will strengthen their European campaign.
However, his move comes against the backdrop of ongoing legal proceedings in England. Partey appeared before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he was charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal. He has been granted conditional bail as the case continues.
Despite the legal cloud, Villarreal have proceeded with the deal, signalling their belief in his ability to contribute on the pitch while his situation off it unfolds in the courts.