In one of the summer’s most controversial transfers, Thomas Partey has officially completed his move from Arsenal to Villarreal CF, signing a one-year contract as a free agent. The 32-year-old Ghanaian midfielder’s arrival at the Spanish club comes amid ongoing legal proceedings in England, making this high-profile signing one that has divided opinion across the football world.
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Official Transfer Confirmation
Villarreal CF announced the signing of Thomas Partey on Thursday, August 7, 2025, with the club confirming that the experienced midfielder has agreed to join the Yellow Submarine ahead of the 2025/26 season. The official statement revealed that Partey would join his new teammates at the club’s training ground immediately, marking the end of his five-year stint with Arsenal.
Born Thomas Teye Partey on June 13, 1993, in Krobo Odumase, Ghana, the midfielder brings a wealth of experience to Villarreal’s squad. The Spanish club praised his attributes, describing him as “a complete midfielder with great stamina and exceptional physical attributes” who “is an excellent ball-winner and has the ability to start moves from deep.”
Career Journey and Achievements
Partey’s football journey has taken him across some of Europe’s top leagues, establishing him as one of Africa’s premier midfield talents. His career began in Ghana before moving to Spain, where he represented UD Almería and RCD Mallorca in his formative years.
The defining period of his early career came at Atlético de Madrid, where he spent eight years developing into one of La Liga’s most reliable defensive midfielders. During his time with the Rojiblancos, Partey collected several major honors, including the LaLiga title (2020/21), the UEFA Europa League (2017/18), and the UEFA Super Cup (2018/19).
His move to Arsenal in 2020 for £45 million marked a significant step in his career, with the Gunners activating his release clause at Atlético Madrid. Over five seasons at the Emirates Stadium, Partey made 167 appearances across all competitions, becoming a central figure in Arsenal’s midfield setup and helping them secure the FA Community Shield in 2023/24.
Return to Spanish Football
Partey’s decision to return to Spain represents a homecoming of sorts, as he spent the majority of his European career in La Liga before his Arsenal move. The opportunity to play Champions League football with Villarreal, who secured a top-five finish in La Liga last season, played a crucial role in his decision.
Villarreal manager Marcelino García Toral identified midfield reinforcement as a priority, particularly with Dani Parejo now 36 years old and questions over the consistency of Santi Comesaña and Pape Gueye. Partey’s experience and proven ability at the highest level make him an ideal candidate to address these concerns.
The midfielder’s tactical intelligence and versatility were evident during his final season at Arsenal, where he made 52 appearances across all competitions, often being deployed at right-back as well as his preferred central midfield position under Mikel Arteta.
International Experience and Recognition
With over 50 caps for Ghana’s national team, Partey has been a cornerstone of the Black Stars’ midfield for several years. His international experience includes multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cup qualifiers, establishing him as one of Ghana’s most important players.
His consistent performances at both club and international level have earned him recognition as one of Africa’s finest midfield talents, with his ability to break up play and initiate attacks from deep positions making him invaluable to any team.
Legal Proceedings and Club Statement
The transfer has been overshadowed by ongoing legal proceedings in England, where Partey faces charges of rape and sexual assault. The midfielder appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025, facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, allegedly occurring between 2021 and 2022. He has been granted conditional bail and firmly maintains his innocence, denying all charges.
Villarreal addressed these circumstances directly in their official statement, emphasizing their commitment to due process: “The club is also aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceeding in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him. The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process.”
The Spanish club also reiterated their institutional values, stating: “Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals.”
Fan and Media Reaction
The signing has generated significant controversy among Villarreal supporters and the wider football community. While some fans have welcomed the addition of an experienced player who can strengthen their Champions League campaign, others have expressed strong opposition to the move.
A fan petition organized by Villarreal Report has gathered over 800 signatures, with critics calling the signing “an act of pure betrayal” and describing it as the “darkest day in the club’s history.” The petition reflects the deep divisions among the fanbase regarding the club’s decision to proceed with the transfer amid the ongoing legal situation.
Conversely, some supporters, including members of fan groups like L’Os Groc, have praised the deal as a smart footballing decision that will strengthen the squad for their European campaign.
Contract Details and Structure
Transfer Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Thomas Teye Partey |
| Age | 32 (Born June 13, 1993) |
| From Club | Arsenal FC (Free Transfer) |
| To Club | Villarreal CF |
| Contract Length | 1 Year (2025/26 Season) |
| Transfer Fee | Free Agent |
| Announcement Date | August 7, 2025 |
Career Statistics Overview
| Club | Period | Appearances | Goals | Major Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlético Madrid | 2012-2020 | 188 | 16 | LaLiga, Europa League, Super Cup |
| Arsenal FC | 2020-2025 | 167 | 18 | FA Community Shield |
| Ghana National Team | 2016-Present | 50+ | 13 | Multiple AFCON appearances |
Honors and Achievements
| Competition | Year | Club |
|---|---|---|
| LaLiga | 2020/21 | Atlético Madrid |
| UEFA Europa League | 2017/18 | Atlético Madrid |
| UEFA Super Cup | 2018/19 | Atlético Madrid |
| FA Community Shield | 2023/24 | Arsenal |
Tactical Impact and Role at Villarreal
Partey’s arrival provides Villarreal with a versatile midfield option who can operate in multiple positions. His primary role as a defensive midfielder allows him to shield the defense while contributing to the team’s attacking phases through his passing range and ability to drive forward with the ball.
His experience in high-pressure situations, particularly in Champions League football with both Atlético Madrid and Arsenal, will be invaluable as Villarreal prepare for their European campaign. The midfielder’s tactical awareness and physical presence make him well-suited to Marcelino’s preferred system.
Champions League Ambitions
Villarreal’s qualification for the Champions League was a significant factor in Partey’s decision to join the club. The opportunity to compete at Europe’s highest level once again, having missed out on Champions League football in Arsenal’s disappointing 2024/25 campaign, provides additional motivation for the veteran midfielder.
The club’s previous Champions League campaigns, including their remarkable run to the semi-finals in 2021/22, demonstrate their ability to compete with Europe’s elite when properly equipped. Partey’s experience in the competition, having featured for both Atlético Madrid and Arsenal in European competitions, adds valuable depth to their squad.
Integration Challenges and Expectations
Despite the controversy surrounding his arrival, Partey is expected to integrate quickly into Villarreal’s system. His familiarity with Spanish football, having spent eight years in La Liga with Atlético Madrid, should ease his transition back to the Spanish game.
The club’s statement indicating he would join training immediately suggests they are keen to have him available for their season opener against Real Oviedo on August 15, 2025. His fitness and match sharpness, having played regularly for Arsenal last season, make him an immediate option for Marcelino’s squad.
Long-term Implications
While the initial contract is for one year, the move could potentially extend beyond the 2025/26 season depending on his performances and circumstances. The relatively short-term commitment allows both parties to evaluate the arrangement while maintaining flexibility for the future.
For Partey, the move represents an opportunity to continue playing at the highest level while the legal proceedings in England continue. The chance to feature in the Champions League and compete in La Liga provides a platform to maintain his international career and potentially extend his club career.
Media Coverage and Public Relations
The signing has generated extensive media coverage, with most outlets focusing on the contrast between Villarreal’s sporting ambitions and the ethical concerns raised by the ongoing legal case. The club’s decision to address the situation directly in their announcement reflects their awareness of the public scrutiny surrounding the transfer.
Villarreal’s communications team faces the challenge of promoting their new signing while maintaining sensitivity regarding the serious nature of the charges he faces. The emphasis on presumption of innocence and their institutional values represents their attempt to balance sporting and ethical considerations.
Looking Ahead
As Partey begins training with his new teammates, all eyes will be on how quickly he adapts to Marcelino’s tactical system and whether he can replicate the form that made him such a valuable player for both Atlético Madrid and Arsenal.
The 2025/26 season presents both opportunities and challenges for the Ghanaian midfielder. Success with Villarreal could potentially rehabilitate his reputation and open doors for future career opportunities, while poor performances or continued controversy could significantly impact his standing in world football.
The resolution of his legal proceedings will undoubtedly influence his long-term future, making this season particularly significant for both his personal and professional life. Villarreal, meanwhile, will hope that their faith in the player’s abilities on the pitch will be rewarded with improved performances in both domestic and European competitions.
Thomas Partey’s move to Villarreal represents one of the most complex and controversial transfers of the 2025 summer window. While his footballing credentials are unquestioned—with a decorated career spanning Atlético Madrid and Arsenal, plus extensive international experience with Ghana—the circumstances surrounding his departure from Arsenal and the ongoing legal proceedings add layers of complexity to this signing.
For Villarreal, the acquisition of such an experienced player on a free transfer represents excellent business from a purely sporting perspective. His ability to contribute immediately to their Champions League campaign and domestic ambitions cannot be understated. However, the club must now navigate the public relations challenges that come with this decision.
The Spanish outfit’s handling of the situation, through their official statement acknowledging the legal proceedings while emphasizing presumption of innocence and their institutional values, demonstrates their attempt to balance competitive ambitions with social responsibility. The true test will be how they manage the ongoing scrutiny while maximizing Partey’s contributions on the pitch.
As Partey embarks on this new chapter of his career, returning to the Spanish league where he first made his mark, the stakes could not be higher. His performances at Villarreal will be scrutinized not just through the lens of sporting success, but also within the broader context of how football handles players facing serious legal allegations.
The coming months will be crucial for all parties involved—Partey’s reputation and career trajectory, Villarreal’s standing as a club, and the wider football community’s approach to similar situations in the future. Success on the pitch may provide some vindication for Villarreal’s controversial decision, but the ultimate judgment will depend on developments both in the courtroom and on the football field.
This transfer serves as a stark reminder of modern football’s complex intersection between sporting excellence, legal accountability, and ethical responsibility—a balance that continues to challenge clubs, players, and fans across the global game.
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FAQs
What type of contract has Thomas Partey signed with Villarreal?
Thomas Partey has signed a one-year contract with Villarreal for the 2025/26 season as a free agent, following the expiration of his Arsenal contract in June 2025.
Why did Villarreal sign Partey despite the ongoing legal proceedings?
Villarreal stated they respect the presumption of innocence and will await the judicial process outcome. The club emphasized they condemn all forms of violence while maintaining their commitment to due process.
What are Thomas Partey’s main strengths as a player?
Partey is described as a complete midfielder with great stamina, exceptional physical attributes, excellent ball-winning ability, capability to start attacks from deep, good long-range shooting, and the ability to break lines when driving forward.
How many appearances did Partey make for Arsenal?
Thomas Partey made 167 appearances for Arsenal across five seasons (2020-2025), including 52 appearances in his final season, playing both central midfield and right-back positions.
Will Partey be available for Villarreal’s season opener?
Yes, Partey is expected to join training immediately and could be available for Villarreal’s La Liga opener against Real Oviedo on August 15, 2025, pending his integration into the squad.
