Thomas Partey has completed a return to Spanish football, signing a one-year contract with Villarreal after five seasons at Arsenal.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian midfielder, who previously spent six years with Atlético Madrid, was unveiled by the Yellow Submarine on Thursday, 7 August 2025.
Partey, a free agent since leaving the Gunners earlier this summer, arrives at a club that finished fifth in La Liga last season and secured a Champions League place for the upcoming campaign.
Villarreal will be hoping the experienced defensive midfielder can add steel and composure to their central unit.
However, the transfer comes against the backdrop of serious legal proceedings in England.
Since early July, Partey has been facing five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault brought by the London police.
He was released on bail two days before his signing was confirmed and is due to appear at the Old Bailey on 2 September.
In an official statement, Villarreal acknowledged the ongoing case, saying: The club is aware that the player is currently facing legal proceedings in England. The player firmly asserts his innocence and denies all accusations against him. The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for shedding light on the facts. Due to the legislation in force in England regarding the ongoing proceedings, the club cannot make any further comment.
The move marks a return to familiar territory for Partey, who built his reputation in La Liga with Atlético Madrid between 2015 and 2021 before joining Arsenal in a £45 million transfer.
While his time in North London was punctuated by injuries, he remained a key figure when fit, helping the club challenge for the Premier League title and secure Champions League football.
At Villarreal, he will join a side eager to maintain their upward trajectory under coach Marcelino.
Partey is expected to link up with his new teammates at the Ciudad Deportiva José Manuel Llaneza training ground on Friday to continue preparations for the new campaign.
Despite the legal uncertainty surrounding him, Villarreal have moved decisively to secure his services, banking on his La Liga experience and leadership qualities to bolster their squad.
The coming months will determine whether Partey’s return to Spanish football is defined by his performances on the pitch or the outcome of his trial in England.
