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 Thomas Partey seen at Arsenal and the one currently playing for the Spanish club.

Marcelino gave a heartbreaking assessment of Partey’s contribution to date following his performance in Villarreal’s 3-0 Champions League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday.

Partey started the match in Germany, with Villarreal having already been eliminated from the competition before the final day.

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

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

He only completed the full 90 minutes five times, while his fitness and overall performance was criticized.

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

Marcelino offered a blunt assessment of Partey’s contribution to date, suggesting he fell far short of the standards he had in his final seasons at Arsenal when he was a key part of Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing sides.

“There is 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 considering offloading 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 sparked controversy, with his signing confirmed after the midfielder was released on bail while facing ongoing rape charges.

The midfielder was charged four days after his Arsenal contract expired 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 Partey’s signing in August, despite protests from 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 proceedings in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all accusations 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 legal proceedings, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case. Due to the law in England regarding ongoing proceedings, the club is unable to comment further.

“Villarreal CF wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and strongly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia or any behavior that violates 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 charged with two counts of rape against one woman and three counts against another. Another allegation of sexual assault involves a third woman. Partey has vigorously denied all accusations.

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

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