High-value celebrity joins a new team amidst sexual assault accusations.
Thomas Partey Joins FC Villarreal Amidst Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Thomas Partey, the Ghanaian midfielder, has completed his move to FC Villarreal on a one-year contract, effective early August 2025. This transfer comes following the termination of his contract with Arsenal at the end of June.
Partey's move to Villarreal is significant as the Spanish club has secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League. The deal, however, was finalized prior to the rape allegations against him being made public.
Partey was charged by the British prosecution with six counts - five of rape and one of sexual assault - related to incidents alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022. He has been granted conditional bail and is due to appear in court at the Old Bailey in London on September 2.
In a statement, Villarreal emphasized the player's innocence claim and its commitment to respect and diversity amid the legal controversy. The club acknowledged the ongoing legal proceedings and reiterated the importance of the "basic principle of the presumption of innocence."
Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020 for approximately €50 million, made 52 competitive appearances for the club last season, scoring four goals. His contract with Arsenal was not renewed this summer.
Regarding the legal status, Partey attended his first court hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court and was granted provisional bail. The club awaits the court's decision to clarify the allegations against Thomas Partey.
Partey, a Ghanaian national, has made 51 appearances for Ghana's national team since 2016. His new club, Villarreal, will be hoping he can bring his experience and skills to the pitch as they compete in the UEFA Champions League.
This transfer marks a new chapter in Thomas Partey's career, and it remains to be seen how the ongoing legal proceedings will impact his footballing future.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings against Thomas Partey, his move to Spanish club Villarreal is set to contribute to their UEFA Champions League campaign. With the promise of European-leagues football ahead, Partey, who was a key player in Laliga for Atlético Madrid before joining Arsenal, aims to bring his skills and experience to the Villarreal sports team.
