Thomas Partey Subjected to Abuse From Fan at Tottenham Stadium Ahead of UCL Clash

Thomas Partey’s return to England for Villarreal’s Champions League clash with Tottenham Hotspur was far from smooth.

Even before kick-off, the Ghanaian midfielder was targeted with abuse as he and his teammates walked through the concourse of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The 32-year-old, named among the substitutes, was spotted in a hoodie as he entered with the Villarreal squad.

A video circulating on social media captured a voice hurling insults at him in the background.

Watch the video:

For Partey, it was his first time back on English soil for a competitive match since the allegations against him became public.

Although his bail conditions allow him to continue playing, he is required to inform authorities of any international trips a day in advance and is prohibited from contacting the complainants.

Villarreal coach backs Partey ahead of court hearing

Ahead of the game, teammate Juan Foyth, who previously played for Tottenham, admitted that Partey would likely face hostility because of his Arsenal past and the ongoing legal case.

Read also

Partey’s teammate predicts tough atmosphere ahead of Champions League showdown

Manager Marcelino, however, expressed confidence in his player’s mindset.

“I’m totally convinced that he is mentally prepared, technically prepared, to play the game. For sure, he will be ready. We are really happy that Thomas is with us for his football capacity and ability and his presence as a human,” the coach said on Monday.

The midfielder’s troubles off the field remain unresolved. He is scheduled to appear at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday for a plea hearing.

Partey has been charged with five counts of non-consensual acts involving two women and one count of sexual assault against another.

The alleged incidents date back to his time at Arsenal between 2021 and 2022.

He has consistently denied the accusations, with his lawyer insisting he “welcomes the chance to finally clear his name.”

For now, Partey remains on conditional bail and continues to feature for Villarreal, who listed him on the bench for their European outing in north London.

Source: YEN.com.gh