Villarreal Fans Oppose Signing Thomas Partey Amid Rape Charges

 

Villarreal CF is facing backlash from fans over potential plans to sign former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey. The 32-year-old Ghanaian international recently left Arsenal after his contract expired and is currently facing five counts of rape and one of sexual assault. Reports from The Athletic suggest that Villarreal is in negotiations to bring Partey to Spain, but the move has triggered criticism from supporters.

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Cesar Pena, president of a major Villarreal fan group in Villafranca de Barros, publicly condemned the club’s interest in Partey. While acknowledging his talent and performance in high-level matches like the Champions League, Pena stressed that the accusations against him are too serious to overlook. He warned that fans may boo Partey if signed, regardless of the trial’s outcome, and urged the club to prioritize ethics and public sentiment over on-pitch strength.

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The situation has stirred a broader ethical debate within Villarreal and the football community at large. Pena emphasized that even if Partey is found not guilty, a large section of the fanbase would still disapprove of his presence at the club. He insisted that signing a player facing such severe allegations goes beyond improving the squad it reflects the values the club represents. Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently defended the club’s past handling of Partey’s playing time while legal proceedings were ongoing. However, as Villarreal weighs up the sporting benefits of adding an experienced midfielder, it now faces strong internal resistance from fans who believe such a move would damage the club’s image and alienate its loyal supporters. The final decision could carry significant consequences both on and off the pitch.