Thomas Partey agreed to join Villarreal after Arsenal exit, setting the stage for a bold La Liga comeback amid legal uncertainties.
According to Spanish outlet As, Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has officially agreed to join Spanish side Villarreal after leaving Arsenal at the end of the 2024-25 season.
The 32-year-old leaves the Emirates after five years of service, having made 167 appearances and played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s near-title runs.
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Thomas Partey arrived in North London in 2020 from Atlético Madrid in a £45 million deal. Known for his combative style and tactical intelligence, he became a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s midfield.
Despite Arteta’s desire to extend his contract, negotiations fell through, and Partey departed as a free agent.
Villarreal, who finished fifth in La Liga last season, have reportedly secured Partey’s signature on a one-year deal.
The move marks a return to Spanish football for the midfielder, and he is expected to join his former Arsenal teammate Nicolas Pepe at the club.
Shortly after his Arsenal exit, Partey was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to incidents from 2021 and 2022.
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He denies all charges and is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. His lawyer stated that Partey “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name”.
While Villarreal’s final decision may hinge on the outcome of Partey’s legal proceedings, the club appears optimistic about integrating the experienced midfielder into their squad. If the move is finalized, it could offer Partey a fresh start and a chance to reignite his career in familiar territory.
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