Thomas Partey’s move to Villareal is close to being finalised
The President of the Villarreal Supporters Group, Cesar Peña, has opposed the club’s bid to sign embattled Ghanaian midfielder, Thomas Partey.
According to him, the Black Stars midfielder’s legal battle where he is facing five counts of rape does not reflect the values and reputation of the club.
He stated that he and the supporters vehemently oppose the club’s decision to sign a player who has been “accused of serious crimes.”
Speaking in an interview with The Athletic, Peña noted that despite Partey’s impressive performances, the fans would not welcome him and he might be booed during games.
“It’s a complicated issue because, in football terms, we all agree that it’s a great opportunity. He’s a top-level player who has proven himself to all Spaniards, for example, in this year’s Champions League tie against Real Madrid. My personal opinion is the same as that expressed by most fans on social media: I would not agree to sign a player accused of such serious crimes, and I would understand if the fans booed the player on the pitch,” he said.
Peña further called on Villarreal officials to take the grievances of the fans seriously in their pursuit of Partey.
“I hope the club takes the fans’ opinion into account, as I believe this is not just a matter of improving the squad. However, whatever the outcome of the trial, if they sign him, most fans will not agree with it—even if he is ultimately found not guilty,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars midfielder was granted conditional bail upon his first appearance in court in relation to the rape case hearing on August 5, 2025.
Reports indicate that the player is on the verge of finalising his move to Villarreal.
SB/VPO
Meanwhile, watch as Derrick Maccaire opens up on challenges in kickboxing, MMA in Ghana
