Thomas Partey statement issued as former Arsenal midfielder completes Villarreal transfer

La Liga club Villarreal have confirmed that former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has joined them for the 2025/26 season.

This week, Partey was granted conditional bail having been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault just four days after his contract with the Gunners expired. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday morning, with the alleged offences taking place between 2021 and 2022.

In a statement announcing his arrival, Villarreal stated: "The club is also aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceeding in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him.

"The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case. Due to the law in England in relation to ongoing proceedings the club is unable to comment further.

"Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals."

This is a breaking news story and we shall update this article promptly...

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