Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has made his first appearance in Villarreal CF colours after competing in a pre-season friendly game.
Partey came off the bench in Villarreal’s 2-0 loss to English Premier League side Aston Villa with Emiliano Buendia and Ollie Watkins scoring in the win.
The 32 year old replaced Denis Suarez in the 75th minute but showed little sign of rustiness after training with his new team a few days ago after he was announced officially as a Villarreal player on Thursday, August 7.
There was booing from sections of the crowd that witnessed the game every time the Deputy Black Stars captain touched the ball.
Partey’s signing has come with a lot of controversy stemming from his legal issues on rape and sexual assault involving three women in England that allegedly took place during his time at Arsenal.
Villarreal issued a statement reaffirming their respect for women after announcing Partey’s signing while indicating that Partey is innocent until proven guilty.
The Yellow Submarine take on Real Oviedo in its 2025-2026 La Liga Season opener on Friday, August 15 at 19:30 GMT. Scroll down to watch highlights of Thomas Partey against Aston Villa
Thomas Partey vs Aston Villa
First game for Villareal pic.twitter.com/3ByNZAOWea
— Maestro (@Maestro_sznx) August 11, 2025
