Villarreal signs Thomas Partey after being released on bail
Villarreal has officially announced the signing of midfielder Thomas Partey, who joins the club as a free agent after his contract with Arsenal ended on June 30th.
The arrival of Partey comes a few days after he was granted conditional bail after appearing before a court in London, where he is charged with rape and sexual assault.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian footballer faces five counts of rape against two women and one count of sexual assault against a third woman.Thomas Partey appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.The alleged assaults occurred between 2021 and 2022, when Partey played for Arsenal.
Among the conditions of his bail, it is established that he cannot contact any of the three women and must notify the police of any permanent change of address or international travel.
The club is aware that the player is currently involved in a legal process in England.
The club has stated that the player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him. Villarreal respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case.
Due to the law in England regarding ongoing proceedings, the club cannot make any further comment.
Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its firm commitment to respect and diversity and strongly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia or any behavior that attacks the dignity of individuals.
Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atletico Madrid for £45 million.
During his five years in North London, he played 130 Premier League matches for Arsenal, including 35 last season, when Mikel Arteta’s team finished second.
Partey will appear before the Old Bailey in London on September 2.
