Villarreal has found itself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after bringing in former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian’s transfer has sparked heated debate due to serious legal allegations he is currently facing in London.
Partey, who left Arsenal at the end of June, is now at the center of multiple rape and sexual assault charges.
Despite this, he completed a free transfer to Villarreal, a move that has divided fans and sparked protests both in England and Spain.
Partey’s Court Appearance and Charges
Last week, Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court facing several charges, including five counts of rape and one of sexual assault.
The allegations involve two women for rape—two counts against one and three against another—and a third woman for sexual assault, according to the Crown Prosecution Service.
After being granted bail, he was legally allowed to travel and join Villarreal, marking a controversial chapter in his career just days after leaving Arsenal.
First Appearance in Villarreal Jersey Met With Jeers
Partey made his debut for Villarreal in a preseason friendly against Aston Villa over the weekend.
His first outing in the Yellow Submarines jersey was met with boos and whistles from the opposition’s fans, highlighting the tension surrounding his signing.
Villarreal President Defends the Club’s Position
Club president Fernando Roig has spoken out in defense of the transfer and the midfielder.
He emphasized that the club respects the presumption of innocence and insists that the legal process must run its course.
“The player is currently undergoing legal proceedings.
He maintains his innocence and denies the charges against him,” Roig said after Villarreal’s 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa.
Roig added, “We have spent years demonstrating our values through all kinds of activities.
We respect the presumption of innocence and, of course, condemn any type of violence, whether inside or outside of football.
At this moment, Partey is as innocent as the rest of us here. A fundamental right like this must be respected.”
Responding to Fan Reactions
When asked about the negative reaction from fans, Roig clarified that the whistles and boos came from Aston Villa supporters, not Villarreal fans.
“I wouldn’t like our own fans to whistle at players on our team.
We must stand with the team and respect the presumption of innocence. He is not a convicted player. We must be cautious and wait for justice.
Let’s not judge prematurely. Thomas has the right to do his job until there is a conviction,” he said.
Bail Conditions and Upcoming Court Dates
Partey is set to defend himself in court in London next month.
Under his bail conditions, he is prohibited from contacting any of the three women involved in the case.
Arsenal Also Under Fire
The controversy has also put Arsenal in the spotlight. Protesters attending the recent hearing criticized the club’s handling of Partey’s situation.
One banner read: “Arsenal said: ‘We do the right thing.’
Then did nothing,” highlighting public frustration with the Premier League side’s response.