Villarreal Signs Thomas Partey Amid Legal Controversy

Spanish club Villarreal signs Thomas Partey after his Arsenal contract ended. The Ghana international faces serious legal charges. Villarreal emphasizes his football skills and presumption of innocence while denouncing violence. Partey's lawyer states his innocence as the case progresses towards its September hearing at the Old Bailey.

Spanish soccer club Villarreal has announced the signing of midfielder Thomas Partey, shortly after he was granted bail on rape charges in England. The 32-year-old Ghanaian, once a star at Arsenal, has committed to Villarreal for the 2025-26 season as a free agent.

The club emphasized Partey's on-field capabilities while expressing respect for the principle of presumption of innocence, explaining it cannot comment further due to English legal restrictions. Partey faces serious allegations involving five counts of rape and one of sexual assault, implicating three women between 2021 and 2022.

In its public statement, Villarreal reiterated a commitment to diversity and opposition to violence in all forms. As the judicial process unfolds, Partey is scheduled to join the team and continue his career, with a court appearance set for September at the Old Bailey in London.

(With inputs from agencies.)