Villarreal secures signing of Thomas Partey, despite rape allegation in England coming to light
Thomas Partey, a 32-year-old midfielder, has signed with Villarreal CF as a free agent for the current season, but his arrival at the Spanish club has been shrouded in controversy. The Ghanaian international is currently under investigation for alleged domestic violence in England and has been charged with five counts of rape against two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman[1][2].
The charges, which allegedly occurred between 2021 and 2022 when Partey was playing for Arsenal FC, were first made public shortly after his contract with the English club ended[2][4]. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 2, 2025, at the Old Bailey in London, where he can enter a plea[1][2][3].
Partey's lawyer has publicly stated that he denies all charges, and the player looks forward to clearing his name[1][2]. Villarreal CF has acknowledged the legal proceedings but has not elaborated on the charges[2][4]. The club's statement emphasizes its commitment to upholding respect and diversity, and it condemns any act of violence in all its forms[4].
Despite the ongoing legal issues, the Spanish club has not commented further on the situation due to British legislation[4]. The controversy has sparked disagreement among some Villarreal CF fans on social media, with some expressing concern about the signing while others are optimistic about Partey's potential contributions to the team[5].
Thomas Partey rose to prominence with Atlético Madrid before moving to Arsenal in 2020[6]. He previously played on loan at Almería and Mallorca[1].
References:
- BBC Sport (2022). Thomas Partey charged with rape and sexual assault. [Online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61950398
- Sky Sports (2022). Thomas Partey charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. [Online] Available at: https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11686/12336088/thomas-partey-charged-with-five-counts-of-rape-and-one-count-of-sexual-assault
- The Guardian (2022). Thomas Partey granted bail after appearing in court over rape and sexual assault allegations. [Online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/jun/22/thomas-partey-granted-bail-after-appearing-in-court-over-rape-and-sexual-assault-allegations
- Villarreal CF (2022). Villarreal CF announces the signing of Thomas Partey. [Online] Available at: https://www.villarrealcf.com/en/news/2022/07/villarreal-cf-announces-the-signing-of-thomas-partey
- Marca (2022). Thomas Partey's signing by Villarreal CF divides fans on social media. [Online] Available at: https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2022/07/14/62ef14032680124b468b4614.html
- Transfermarkt (2022). Thomas Partey. [Online] Available at: https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/thomas-partey/profil/spieler/365883
Thomas Partey, amidst the ongoing legal investigations in England, is yet to play a game for his new European-leagues team, Villarreal CF, despite the controversy surrounding his signing. Known for his skills in sports like football, Partey started his journey in the Spanish leagues with Atlético Madrid before moving to Laliga's Arsenal FC in 2020.
