Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey blasted for performances six months after joining new club – as Villarreal boss claims there is a ‘world of difference’ compared to his Gunners’ displays

Villarreal head coach Marcelino has claimed there is a ‘world of difference’ between the Thomas Partey seen at Arsenal to the one currently playing for the Spanish club.

Marcelino made the withering assessment of Partey’s contribution to date following his performance in Villarreal’s 3-0 Champions League defeat by Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday.

Partey had started the match in Germany, with Villarreal having already been eliminated from the competition heading into the final matchday.

The Ghana midfielder was hauled off at half-time along with Tajon Buchanan, after Leverkusen had opened up a 2-0 lead in the first half.

Partey, who joined on a free transfer in the summer after being released by Arsenal, has made 21 appearances so far this season for Villarreal.

He has completed the full 90 minutes just five times, while there has been criticism of his fitness levels and overall performances.

Marcelino claimed there is a ‘world of difference’ compared to Partey’s performances at Arsenal

Marcelino offered a blunt assessment of Partey’s contribution to date, suggesting he has been a long way off the standards he had during his final seasons at Arsenal when he was a key part of Mikel Arteta’s title chasing teams.

‘There’s a world of difference between the Thomas we knew at Arsenal and this one,’ Marcelino said. 

‘A world of difference.

‘It’s very difficult to play at this pace in today’s football. 

‘I think it’s been six months, and that’s enough time for this player to show us what he was or what he’s showing now.’

Spanish newspaper Marca suggested Villarreal may already be looking to offload the 32-year-old in the final days of the transfer window, with Partey having recently fallen below 17-year-old academy graduate Carlos Macia in the pecking order. 

Partey’s move to Villarreal on a one-year deal had generated controversy, with his signing confirmed after the midfielder had been granted bail while facing ongoing rape charges.

The midfielder had been charged four days after the expiration of his contract at Arsenal in June.

Partey pleaded not guilty to five charges of rape and one of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court in September, with a trial date set for November 2, 2026

Villarreal confirmed the signing of Partey in August, despite protests of fans, with the Spanish side releasing a statement in response to the backlash.

‘The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceeding in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him,’ Villarreal said at the time.

‘The club respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case. Due to the law in England in relation to ongoing proceedings the club is unable to comment further.

‘Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals.’

Partey pleaded not guilty to five charges of rape and one charge of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court in September.

He is accused of two counts of rape against one woman and three counts against another. A further sexual assault allegation relates to a third woman. Partey has strenuously denied all the charges. 

A trial date was then set for November 2, 2026 at Southwark Crown Court.

Partey’s lawyer said previously that he ‘denies all the charges against him’ and added he welcomes ‘the opportunity to finally clear his name’.