Villarreal, Spain – August 7, 2025
Spanish La Liga club Villarreal CF has announced the signing of Ghana international Thomas Partey on a two-year deal, following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
Partey, 32, joins the Yellow Submarine on a free transfer, returning to La Liga after five seasons in the Premier League.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing in England
The midfielder’s move comes while he is facing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Partey appeared before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, where he was formally charged with:
- Five counts of rape involving two women
- One count of sexual assault involving a third woman
The alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his tenure at Arsenal. Partey has been granted conditional bail as the case proceeds through the UK’s legal system.
Villarreal Acknowledge Legal Situation
Despite the controversy, Villarreal confirmed the signing, stating that they are “aware of the legal proceedings and will monitor developments closely.” The club has not yet commented on any internal disciplinary clauses within the player’s contract.
A club spokesperson said:
“We believe in the principle of presumption of innocence. Thomas Partey joins us as an experienced professional, and we will act in accordance with legal developments.”
Return to Spain
Partey previously played in Spain for Atlético Madrid, where he spent eight years and won the UEFA Europa League and La Liga titles. His return to Spain follows a mixed spell at Arsenal, where injuries disrupted his impact but he remained a key figure in midfield when fit.
Last season, he helped Arsenal reach the UEFA Champions League semifinals, his final appearance for the Gunners before his contract expired.