Thomas Partey Prepares for Champions League Amid Legal Challenges
Thomas Partey is "ready" to compete against Tottenham in the Champions League on Tuesday, just a day before he is scheduled to appear in court facing charges of rape and sexual assault, according to Villarreal manager Marcelino.
The Ghanaian midfielder, 32, was charged last month with five counts of rape involving two women, as well as a charge of sexual assault against a third woman. These alleged incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022 while he was playing for Arsenal.
Partey has denied all charges, with his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, stating that he "welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name." He was granted conditional bail and subsequently signed with Spanish club Villarreal, which finished fifth in La Liga last season.
Partey is set to appear at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday for a plea hearing, the day after his team's Champions League opener against their north London rivals, Tottenham.
Marcelino expressed confidence in Partey's preparation, stating on Monday, "I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow. For sure he will be ready. We are very happy that Thomas is with us for his football ability and his presence as a human being."
He continued, "He is a great player with a lot of experience, having played for many top clubs. We know he has a great level of skill." When asked if he had discussed the potential hostility Partey might face from Tottenham fans, Marcelino emphasized the importance of focusing on the game. "We’re interpreting things about a player who could be totally innocent. We’re playing a game of football tomorrow where the important thing is football. This is where football was invented, after all. Do you understand me? Thank you."
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020, making 167 appearances and scoring nine goals for the club. This season, he has played four times for Villarreal, including one start.