Partey Makes Villarreal Debut Amid Off-Field Turmoil

Thomas Partey (Villarreal)
August 2025

Thomas Partey made his Villarreal debut in a 2-0 La Liga win over Real Oviedo days after being released by Arsenal. The 32-year-old faces multiple rape and assault charges, which he denies, but played under conditional bail. Partey came off the bench to mixed reactions from Villarreal fans. Goals from Etta Eyong and Papa Gueye secured victory for Marcelino’s side after Oviedo goalkeeper Alberto Reina’s red card. His presence highlighted Villarreal’s gamble amid his legal challenges.