Villarreal President Defends Partey Signing Amid Rape Charges, Urges Fans to Reserve Judgment
Villarreal President Defends Thomas Partey Signing Amid Rape Charges
By Ben Willcocks, Assistant Sports Editor
Villarreal president Fernando Roig has publicly addressed the backlash over the club’s controversial signing of former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who faces multiple rape charges in the UK. The 32-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court last week, where he was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving three women. Despite the allegations, Partey completed a free transfer to Villarreal after his Arsenal contract expired on June 30.
[Image 1: Thomas Partey training with Villarreal. Caption: Partey joined Villarreal days after being granted bail in the UK.]
The midfielder was booed by Aston Villa fans during a pre-season friendly on August 12, which Villarreal lost 2-0. Roig defended the signing, stating the club “upholds the presumption of innocence” and emphasized that Partey “denies the charges.”
“The player is undergoing legal proceedings, and it is the responsibility of English courts to clarify the facts,” Roig said. “We respect fundamental rights and condemn all violence. At this moment, Partey is as innocent as anyone here.”
[Image 2: Fernando Roig speaking at a press conference. Caption: Villarreal’s president urged fans not to “judge prematurely.”]
Roig dismissed concerns about fan reactions, noting that the jeers came from Aston Villa supporters, not Villarreal’s fanbase. “We must stand with our team and await justice. Let’s not rush to judgment,” he added.
Partey, who will face trial in London next month, is prohibited from contacting the three women involved under his bail conditions. The case has also drawn criticism toward Arsenal, with protesters outside the court accusing the club of inaction. A sign read: “Arsenal said: ‘We do the right thing.’ Then did nothing.”
[Image 3: Protesters outside Westminster Court. Caption: Critics targeted Arsenal for their handling of the allegations.]
While Villarreal’s decision has sparked debate, Roig reiterated the need for due process, stating, “Thomas has the right to work until proven guilty.” The club, known for its community initiatives, now faces scrutiny as Partey’s legal battle unfolds.
[Image 4: Partey in action during Villarreal’s friendly. Caption: The midfielder was met with boos during his pre-season debut.]
The Ghana international’s trial will be closely watched, with football’s handling of off-pitch conduct under increasing scrutiny. For now, Villarreal stands by their signing, balancing legal principles with public opinion.
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