Villarreal CF have completed the signing of former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey on a two-year deal, comprising an initial one-year contract with an option to extend for an additional 12 months.
The 32-year-old Ghana international joins the La Liga club as a free agent following the expiration of his Arsenal contract in June 2025, with his move finalised after passing a medical on August 3.
The opportunity to play Champions League football was a key factor in his decision to join the Yellow Submarine.
Partey, who made 167 appearances for Arsenal and 188 for Atlético Madrid, brings a wealth of experience as a versatile midfielder, capable of playing centrally or at right-back.
However, his arrival has sparked significant backlash due to legal issues. On July 4, Partey was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to alleged incidents involving three women between 2021 and 2022.
He denies all charges and was granted conditional bail on August 5 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, with conditions requiring him to notify police of international travel 24 hours in advance. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 2 at the Old Bailey.