Thomas Partey is set for a return to La Liga, joining Villarreal on a two-year contract after his departure from Arsenal as a free agent
The Ghanaian midfielder was drawn to the Yellow Submarine in large part due to the prospect of playing European football, with Villarreal preparing for Champions League competition in the coming season.
For the 32-year-old, the move also marks a homecoming of sorts, as he returns to Spain, the league where he first made his name with Atletico Madrid.
The decision to sign with Villarreal was influenced by multiple factors. Partey reportedly prioritised remaining competitive at the highest level, keen to maintain his form and sharpness during a key World Cup year.
Staying in a familiar league not only offers him stability but also keeps him in the spotlight for selection with the Ghanaian national team.
Partey’s availability on a free transfer came after negotiations over a contract extension with Arsenal broke down earlier this summer. Despite the London club’s interest in retaining him, the two sides could not agree on terms.
As a result, Partey ended his five-year stint in North London, having made over 100 appearances for the club.
Despite completing his move, Partey’s sporting future is clouded by ongoing legal issues. The midfielder is currently under investigation in the United Kingdom and has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving three different women with incidents alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
He is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025. Partey has denied all charges and has cooperated with authorities throughout the process. Villarreal has not commented on his legal situation since the transfer news broke.
Particular attention will be paid to how Villarreal manage both the on-pitch and off-pitch challenges as they bring in an experienced midfielder facing serious off-field allegations.
For Partey, the move offers an opportunity to relaunch his career in European football while simultaneously preparing to defend himself in a high-profile legal battle.
AuthorFlashscore