Partey made his debut for Villareal on Sunday
Thomas Partey marked his first appearance for Villarreal with a message of gratitude, despite his side’s preseason defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
The Ghana international, who joined the Yellow Submarine this summer on a two-year deal, came off the bench in the second half as Villarreal fell 2-0 at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Aston Villa took control early, with England striker Ollie Watkins opening the scoring in the 23rd minute, before Emiliano Buendía sealed the result just four minutes into the second half.
After the game, Partey took to social media to share a brief but heartfelt reaction.
Posting photos from the match, the former Arsenal midfielder wrote, “First minutes in the tank. God is good,” underlining his excitement at getting back on the pitch in Spanish football.
The 32-year-old’s return to La Liga comes after a successful stint at Atlético Madrid earlier in his career, where he won the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup.
Villarreal are banking on his wealth of experience to bolster their midfield as they prepare for a demanding 2025/26 campaign, which includes a UEFA Champions League run.
Partey’s debut may have ended in defeat, but the signs of sharpness and composure he displayed suggest that Villarreal fans can expect a key role from the Ghanaian star in the months ahead.
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