UCL: Partey set to face Tottenham Hotspur amid assault charges

Villarreal manager Marcelino has confirmed that Thomas Partey is “ready” to play in Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Tottenham Hotspur, just one day before the midfielder is scheduled to appear in a London court to face charges of rape and sexual assault.

According to BBC Sports on Tuesday, Partey, 32, was charged last month with five counts of rape involving two women, and one count of sexual assault against a third.

The alleged incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time at Arsenal.

He denies all charges, and his legal team says he is eager to clear his name in court.

He was granted conditional bail and two days later signed for Spanish side Villarreal, who finished fifth in La Liga last season.

Partey will appear at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday for a plea hearing, a day after his side’s Champions League opener against Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham.

“I am totally convinced that he is mentally prepared and technically prepared to play tomorrow,” said Marcelino on Monday.

For sure, he will be ready. We are very happy Thomas is with us for his football capacity, football ability, and his presence as a human.

He is a great player with a lot of experience. He has played for a lot of top clubs. We know he has a great level.”

When Marcelino was asked if he had spoken to Partey about the hostility he could face from Tottenham fans, the Spaniard said he was focusing on the football.

“We’re interpreting stuff about and talking about a player that could be totally innocent,” said Marcelino.

“We’re playing a game of football tomorrow, where the important thing is football.

“This is where football was invented after all. Do you understand me? Thank you.”

Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 and played 167 times for the club, scoring nine goals.

He has played four times for Villarreal this season, making one start.