Partey set to play a day before his court hearing as Villarreal open their campaign against Tottenham Hotspur.
Thomas Partey could play for Villarreal at Tottenham on eve of court hearing.
After his new team, Villarreal, begins their Champions League campaign against Tottenham on Tuesday night, Thomas Partey is expected to appear before Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday morning to answer to rape charges.
Partey, who played for Arsenal for five years before joining Villarreal on a free transfer in August, is in an unusual circumstance where he is sure to be well received at Spurs’ stadium.
Marcelino, the manager of Villarreal, sidestepped enquiries about whether he would start Partey, who is a member of the London squad. However, Marcelino maintained that Partey, if chosen, would be capable of managing the match.
Partey, 32, is charged with one count of sexual assault and five counts of rape. Three women who claimed occurrences that occurred between 2021 and 2022 are the subject of the claims.
“I’m totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play,” Marcelino said. “For sure he’ll be ready. We are really happy that Thomas is with us for his football capacity and ability and his presence as a human. He’s a great player with lots of experience. He’s played in some top sides. We know he’s got a great ability and great level.
“I think he ended last season and started this season well. He settled in during pre-season really, really well. I think he will get back to his top level which we all know that he’s got and I’m very happy he’s with us in the team.”
During Villarreal’s pre-match press conference, Marcelino was barraged with questions on Partey from English reporters, claiming at one point that “we are talking more about Thomas than the game.” Marcelino tried to change the subject to the football.
“We’re interpreting stuff and talking about a player that could be totally innocent,” he said. “We’re playing a game of football tomorrow where the important thing is football. This is where football was invented, after all.
“Thomas is with the group. He’s available. And then tomorrow, if nothing happens to the player in terms of fitness, he will be with all of us.”