Ghanaian international Thomas Partey has signed a two-year contract with La Liga side Villarreal CF, departing Arsenal FC effective immediately.
The Spanish club announced the transfer on social media Wednesday, confirming the 32-year-old midfielder will join training at their Sports City complex on August 8.
Villarreal’s statement acknowledged the ongoing legal proceedings against Partey, who faces five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault allegedly occurring between 2021 and 2022. The midfielder appeared in a UK court on August 5 where he was granted conditional bail; his next hearing is scheduled for September 2.
Partey’s move concludes a five-year tenure at Arsenal, where he made 99 appearances after joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020. Villarreal, known as the “Yellow Submarine,” finished eighth in La Liga last season and will integrate Partey into their midfield ahead of their 2025-26 campaign opener.
The transfer has drawn scrutiny due to the unresolved criminal case. UK authorities confirm the investigation remains active, though Partey maintains his innocence. Football governance regulations permit transfers during ongoing legal proceedings unless disciplinary sanctions are imposed by federations.
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