Thomas Partey / Getty Images Villarreal
president Fernando Roig has stated that Thomas Partey
will stop playing for the club if he is found guilty.
The midfielder faces allegations in five counts of rape, including anal penetration, and one count of sexual assault. According to the prosecution, the alleged crimes against three women took place at Partey’s London mansion and a hotel in Marbella, Spain.
Partey has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear at Old Bailey on September 2.
Earlier, Villarreal signed the 32-year-old midfielder on a one-year contract.
Roig commented:
“The player is currently undergoing legal proceedings. He maintains his innocence and denies the allegations against him. The club respects the presumption of innocence, and it is for the English legal system to determine the facts.
“We respect the presumption of innocence and, of course, condemn all forms of violence—both in football and outside it. At the moment, Partey is as innocent as any of us here. This fundamental right must be upheld.
“He is an excellent player who will help us grow as a team. He is one of the best footballers in the world in his position. If he is found guilty, he will not play for Villarreal, but for now he has not been convicted. We need to wait. He deserves the presumption of innocence.”