Thomas Partey Makes La Liga Debut for Villarreal in Routine Win Against Real Oviedo
- Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey made his competitive bow for Villarreal on Friday night, helping the Yellow Submarine cruise past Real Oviedo
- The ex-Arsenal star received a mixed reception from sections of the fanbase at the Estadio de la Ceramica
- Club president Fernando Roig publicly backed him ahead of kick-off despite the ongoing legal case he faces in the UK
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Thomas Partey stepped onto the pitch for the first time in Villarreal colours as the Yellow Submarine cruised to a 2–0 victory over Real Oviedo at the Estadio de la Ceramica.
The 32-year-old was introduced with just eight minutes left on the clock, replacing Santi Comesana.
Source: Getty Images
Partey makes La Liga debut in Villarreal's victory against Oviedo
Though his time was brief, Partey made his presence felt. In nine minutes, he registered 15 touches, completed 92 per cent of his passes, recorded one interception, and earned a 6.3 Sofascore rating.
The home crowd had reason to cheer early on. Cameroonian striker Etta Eyong and Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye scored in quick succession during the first half, putting Villarreal firmly in control.
Real Oviedo had a golden chance to break the game's deadlock, but former Everton forward Salomon Rondon squandered a penalty, missing from twelve yards.
The visitors’ troubles deepened when Alberto Reina was shown a red card in the 27th minute, leaving them with ten men and an uphill battle they never recovered from.
When Partey was finally brought on, he was greeted with a warm applause from the Villarreal supporters.
The reception was significant, considering the unease that surrounded his signing.
In the build-up to the game, a section of the fanbase had expressed opposition to his arrival. Some had even threatened to protest, demanding that the club cancel his contract.
Over a thousand supporters signed an online petition, labelling the move “disgraceful” and claiming it clashed with Villarreal’s family-friendly values.
A few season ticket holders hinted at boycotting home games, while others urged sponsors to reconsider their ties with the club.
Villarreal president defends Partey amid legal case in the UK
Amid the tension, club president Fernando Roig stepped forward to defend Villarreal’s decision.
He pleaded with fans not to pass judgment before the midfielder’s ongoing case in the United Kingdom is resolved.
Source: Getty Images
“The principle of innocent until proven guilty must be respected,” Roig explained, stressing that the Ghanaian deserves the right to continue his career while the legal process unfolds.
Partey’s situation remains far from settled. According to the Metropolitan Police, he faces multiple charges of sexual misconduct linked to alleged incidents between 2021 and 2022.
The Black Stars midfielder has denied all allegations, firmly maintaining his innocence.
Earlier this month, he appeared in court for the first time since the charges were filed.
The hearing, which lasted around fifteen minutes, ended with him being granted conditional bail. He is scheduled to return to court on September 2, 2025.
Partey's next game for Villarreal
For now, Partey will take confidence from his brief but promising debut.
Villarreal’s next test comes at home against Girona, who stumbled to a 3–1 defeat against Rayo Vallecano in their opener.
Partey to face Barcelona in the US?
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Thomas Partey might feature for Villarreal in a landmark La Liga clash against Barcelona, which could be staged outside Spain for the first time.
The league is exploring plans to host the encounter in Miami, a move that would mark a historic moment for Spanish top-flight football.
Source: YEN.com.gh
