'Let's not judge prematurely' - Thomas Partey signing defended by Villarreal president as ex-Arsenal star booed on debut after being granted bail on rape charges

Partey joined the Spanish side this summer following his departure from Arsenal. The midfielder has been allowed to move to Spain despite being charged with five counts of rape against two women and a charge of sexual assault against a third woman. Partey was granted conditional bail at the start of August in a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

Partey's move to Villarreal has drawn criticism from fans. Cesar Pena, president of the Villarreal supporters’ club in Villafranca de Barros, has criticised the decision to sign the player, while he was booed on his debut for the club in a pre-season friendly against Aston Villa.

The Villarreal president defended Partey after the game and told reporters: "The player is currently undergoing legal proceedings. He maintains his innocence and denies the charges against him. The club upholds the presumption of innocence, and it will be the responsibility of the English courts to clarify the facts. We have spent years demonstrating our values with all kinds of activities.  We respect the presumption of innocence and, of course, condemn any type of violence, whether inside or outside of football. At this moment, Partey is as innocent as the rest of us here. A fundamental right like this must be respected."

Roig also insisted the boos came from Aston Villa supporters, adding: "The English [Aston Villa fans] whistled Partey. Not the Villarreal fans. I wouldn’t like our own fans to whistle at players on our team. We must stand with the team and respect the presumption of innocence. He is not a convicted player. We must be cautious and wait for justice. Let’s not judge prematurely. Thomas has the right to do his job until there is a conviction."

Partey is due to appear at the Old Bailey on September 2. Villarreal will kick off their new La Liga campaign on Friday against newly-promoted Oviedo.