Villarreal have condemned “violence in all its forms” after signing former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian, whose contract with the Gunners expired at the end of last season, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday charged with five counts of raping two women and sexually assaulting a third.
The alleged offences took place between 2021 and 2022, while he was playing for Arsenal. Partey was not required to plead guilty and was released on bail.
Villarreal confirmed on Thursday afternoon that they had reached an agreement with the former Atletico Madrid, Real Mallorca and Almeria player, who will join his teammates at the club's training ground on Friday, although the length of the contract was not specified.
However, a statement posted on the club's official X account said: “The club is also aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England. The player persistently maintains his innocence and denies all charges brought against him.”
The club adheres to the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the court proceedings, which should clarify the circumstances of the case. Due to the English law governing the current proceedings, the club is unable to provide further comment.
“Villarreal CF wishes to clearly underline its strong commitment to respect and diversity and categorically condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia or any behaviour that demeans the dignity of the individual.”
Partey, who was charged just four days after his Arsenal contract expired at the end of June, is due to appear at the Old Bailey on September 2.
One of the conditions of his release on bail is that he must notify police of any permanent changes of address or international travel.
Partey signed for Arsenal in October 2020 from Atletico Madrid for £45.3m and has made 120 Premier League appearances for the club.
A Villarreal statement read: “Thomas Teye Partey is a versatile midfielder with great stamina and outstanding physical attributes. He has excellent ball control and is able to start attacks from deep.”
“The African footballer also has a good shot from medium range and is able to break through to the goal by moving forward.”
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
