Villarreal Star Warns About Hostile Atmosphere for Thomas Partey Before UCL Match
- Thomas Partey has been warned to brace for a hostile reception from Tottenham fans when Villarreal open their Champions League campaign
- The 32-year-old is said to be ‘mentally ready’ for the storm awaiting him at Spurs’ stadium on Tuesday, September 16
- Barely a day after the clash, Partey is expected back in court, following two previous adjournments in his ongoing case
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Villarreal defender Juan Foyth has warned that Thomas Partey should expect a frosty welcome when the Spanish side takes on Tottenham Hotspur in their UEFA Champions League opener on Tuesday night.
The Yellow Submarine arrived in London with attention firmly fixed on Partey, whose name dominated the pre-match press conference.
Source: Getty Images
Head coach Marcelino was pressed with numerous questions about the Ghanaian midfielder, who is currently facing six serious charges in the United Kingdom.
Despite the legal storm surrounding his player, Marcelino showed unwavering belief in Partey’s readiness for the big occasion.
“I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow night,” the Villarreal boss said.
Partey told to expect opposition from Spurs fans
Partey’s five-year stint with Arsenal, Tottenham’s fiercest rivals, adds further weight to the drama.
His history across North London, where he made 167 appearances for the Gunners, per Transfermarkt, only fuels the expectation of a hostile atmosphere under the lights at Spurs’ home ground.
Juan Foyth, who once wore the white shirt of Tottenham before moving to Spain, echoed those sentiments when asked about his teammate.
“No, I haven't spoke with him yet, but of course he played in Arsenal so the atmosphere will be against him, for sure,” the defender admitted, as quoted by talkSPORT.
While Partey prepares to face a hostile crowd, his off-field battles remain ever-present.
Legal case overshadows Partey’s return to London
The midfielder will return to Southwark Crown Court less than 24 hours after the clash with Tottenham for a plea hearing.
He faces five counts of non-consensual acts against two women and one charge of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022.
Watch Partey's first court appearance:
At his last court appearance on August 5, he was not asked to enter a plea but was released on conditional bail.
Just two days later, he signed for Villarreal following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal.
Source: Getty Images
Despite the legal scrutiny, Partey is expected to play against Spurs, with Villarreal eager to make a statement in Europe.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the night, Tottenham’s squad will feature Ghanaian playmaker Mohammed Kudus, setting up a unique Black Stars reunion on English soil.
Partey’s legal team have maintained his innocence throughout. A statement from his lawyer reaffirmed his position:
“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Villarreal fans’ president slams Partey signing
In an earlier report by YEN.com.gh, Borja Peña, president of Villarreal’s supporters’ group in Madrid, openly criticised the club’s decision to sign Thomas Partey.
Peña stressed that while Partey’s talent on the pitch is unquestionable, it cannot overshadow the serious legal battles he is currently facing.
Source: YEN.com.gh
