Thomas Partey has completed his move as a new Villarreal player despite huge online backlash against the Spanish club from their own fanbase.
The Ghanaian international has signed an initial one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months after his contract at Arsenal expired.
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has completing a move to Spanish side Villarreal, following the end of his five-year tenure at the Emirates Stadium
| PAThe news comes days after the former Atletico Madrid midfielder was granted conditional bail following an appearance in court on charges relating to multiple sexual offences.
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The 32-year-old footballer attended Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he faced five counts of rape involving two women, as well as one count of sexual assault against a third.
The alleged incidents are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022, during Partey's time at Arsenal.
Partey was charged just four days after leaving the Gunners upon the expiry of his contract on June 30, opening Arsenal’s handling of the situation to significant criticism, given Partey was first arrested in July 2022.
However, the Ghanaian's identity was not confirmed at that time.
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Thomas Partey arrived in court earlier this week
|Reuters
The case was passed to the Crown Prosecution Service in December 2024, during which time Partey continued to play for Arsenal.
It is said the club offered him a new contract at the end of the season, although no agreement was reached.
Upon the news that Partey was poised to join Villarreal, hundreds of fans signed a petition urging their club not to go ahead with the signing.
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Supporters dubbed it the “darkest day in the club’s history”.
The petition has close to 1,000 signatures and described the move as a “slap in the face to all victims of sexual abuse worldwide.”
Partey’s legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, previously issued a statement on his behalf, saying: “He denies all the charges against him and looks forward to the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
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The Ghanaian granted conditional bail earlier this week following an appearance in court on charges relating to multiple sexual offence
|Reuters
The Met Police also stated: "The charges follow an investigation by detectives, which commenced in February 2022 after police first received a report of rape."
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, whose team led the investigation, said: "Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward."
Partey joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid in a £45million deal in 2020 and has been a pivotal member in Arteta’s squad since.
Partey played a major role in Arteta’s side this year, making 52 appearances across all competitions until, after five years and 167 appearances at the club, leaving the club in July.
The 32-year-old has also made 51 appearances for his native Ghana, whom he currently captains.
Villarreal finished fifth in La Liga last season, earning qualification to the Champions League.