Villarreal head coach Marcelino has delivered a scathing critique of midfielder Thomas Partey, asserting there exists a 'world of difference' between the player's performances at Arsenal and his current displays for the Spanish club.
Withering Assessment After Champions League Defeat
Marcelino's blunt comments followed Villarreal's 3-0 Champions League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, a match where Partey started but was substituted at half-time alongside Tajon Buchanan. The German side had already established a 2-0 lead by the interval, with Villarreal having been eliminated from the competition prior to this final group stage fixture.
Stark Contrast to Arsenal Form
The Ghanaian international, who joined Villarreal on a free transfer last summer after his Arsenal release, has made 21 appearances this season. However, he has completed the full 90 minutes on just five occasions, with his fitness levels and overall contributions facing consistent criticism.
'There's a world of difference between the Thomas we knew at Arsenal and this one,' Marcelino stated emphatically. 'A world of difference. It's very difficult to play at this pace in today's football. I think it's been six months, and that's enough time for this player to show us what he was or what he's showing now.'
Future at Villarreal in Doubt
Spanish publication Marca has suggested Villarreal may already be seeking to offload the 32-year-old during the final days of the transfer window. Partey has reportedly fallen below 17-year-old academy graduate Carlos Macia in the midfield pecking order, further questioning his long-term prospects at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Controversial Signing Amid Legal Proceedings
Partey's move to Villarreal on a one-year deal generated significant controversy, confirmed after the midfielder had been granted bail while facing ongoing rape charges. He was charged four days after his Arsenal contract expired in June.
In September, Partey pleaded not guilty to five charges of rape and one of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court, with a trial date set for November 2, 2026. The allegations involve two counts of rape against one woman, three counts against another, and a sexual assault allegation relating to a third woman. Partey has strenuously denied all charges.
Club's Statement on Signing
Villarreal confirmed Partey's signing in August despite fan protests, releasing a statement addressing the backlash: 'The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him.'
The statement continued: '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 added: '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.'
Partey's lawyer has previously stated that he 'denies all the charges against him' and welcomes 'the opportunity to finally clear his name.'
