Photo Credit: Getty Images
Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has completed a move to Spanish club Villarreal after his contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June.
Partey, 32, had joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atletico Madrid in a £45 million transfer. His time with the North London club came to an end this summer when his contract was not renewed. Just four days after his departure, Partey was charged with five counts of rape involving two women, and one count of sexual assault concerning a third woman. He has denied all the charges.
On Tuesday, Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court, where he was granted conditional bail. The terms of his bail prevent him from contacting the alleged victims and require him to inform police of any permanent changes in residence or plans for international travel.
Villarreal addressed the ongoing legal proceedings in an official statement. The club confirmed that they are aware of the situation and stressed that Partey maintains his innocence. The club emphasized its respect for the legal principle of presumption of innocence and stated it would wait for the outcome of the judicial process before making further comment.
"Due to the legal situation in England, we are unable to provide any additional remarks at this time," the statement read.
The charges stem from an investigation by detectives that began in February 2022.
Following the announcement of Partey's signing, close to 1,000 people signed a petition protesting the move. The petition was initiated by the Villarreal Report, an online content platform.
In response to the backlash, Villarreal reiterated its commitment to promoting respect and diversity. The club also condemned all forms of violence and discrimination, including gender-based violence, racism, xenophobia, and any actions that undermine the dignity of individuals.
Despite the controversy, Partey is expected to officially join his new teammates on Friday. He is scheduled to appear in court at the Old Bailey on September 2.
His signing came just one day after Villarreal secured a 3-2 victory over Arsenal in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium, adding further attention to the transfer.
