Thomas Partey has finally linked up with his new teammates at Villarreal, marking his first appearance on the training ground since sealing a summer switch to the Spanish club.
The 32-year-old midfielder was officially announced on Thursday, August 7, after penning a one-year deal with an option to extend.
The experienced Ghanaian joins the Yellow Submarine as they look to strengthen ahead of their Champions League return and the 2025/26 La Liga campaign.
Partey trains for the first time with Villarreal
A video shared by Villarreal’s X account, seen by YEN.com.gh, showed Partey fully kitted in Villarreal’s training gear, going through drills and tactical routines with the rest of the squad.
Under the watch of head coach Marcelino García Toral, the former Arsenal man appeared focused and comfortable, seamlessly blending in during the session.
Watch the video:
Partey’s first day on the pitch for Villarreal did not go unnoticed. Fans quickly took to social media to share their excitement and thoughts on the club’s latest signing.
YEN.com.gh gathered some of the most striking reactions from X (formerly Twitter):
@PacoKurgan quipped:
“No Thomas, no party.”
@vineetrajouri anticipated a strong showing:
“VILLARREAL would be stronger with his presence!!! Thomas Partey is a solid player.”
@Ohene_Khojo couldn’t hide his joy:
“Midfield General 🔥✅🤌🏾”
@MerequetengueB added:
“What a great signing, Villarreal! They brought in a true midfield predator.”
When will Partey play his first game for Villarreal?
The Ghana international could make his first appearance for Villarreal on Sunday, August 10, in a preseason match against Premier League side Aston Villa.
Just five days later, the Spanish outfit will open their domestic campaign with a home fixture at the Estadio de la Cerámica against Real Oviedo.
Interestingly, Oviedo boasts another Ghanaian midfielder, Kwesi Sibo, who has often spoken of his admiration for Partey.
That clash could see the protégé go toe-to-toe with his idol.
Partey’s legal woes in the UK
While Partey begins a fresh chapter on the pitch, legal matters continue to cast a shadow over it.
The midfielder, who recently parted ways with Arsenal, is currently out on conditional bail after making his first court appearance.
He faces five counts of non-consensual acts and one charge of sexual assault. Despite the seriousness of the case, Partey has maintained his innocence.
Source: YEN.com.gh
