The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has risen to the defence of Ghanaian footballer and former Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey, following remarks by Villarreal’s coach on his contrasting form since joining the club in August last year.

Speaking during a post-match conference after Villarreal’s Champions League defeat to Bayern Leverkusen in February 2026, Marcelino García Toral said Partey is mentally affected and struggling to meet expected standards since joining the club.

He said, “Thomas, I think there’s a world of difference between the Thomas we know at Arsenal and this one. It’s very difficult to play at this pace in today’s football.”

According to him, six months is enough for Partey to have adapted to the rhythm and playing style of the club, adding that the midfielder has not been in his best form.

“So, I think it’s been six months now, and that’s enough time for this player to show us what he was capable of, or what he’s showing us now,” the coach added.

Reacting to the remarks, GFA Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, backed Partey, praising him as one of Ghana’s best and dismissing the coach’s comments as harsh on a central figure for Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“We believe in the quality of Partey, and we do not believe one game defines him as a player. At the FA, we do not share the coach’s view on this matter. Partey remains a top player, and we have a strong belief in his qualities,” Asante Twum said.

Partey, 32, joined Villarreal on a free transfer after his contract with Arsenal expired. His start at the Spanish club has been disrupted by injuries, with reports suggesting he has been playing through physical issues.

The Ghana international and former Arsenal player already started training with Villarreal ahead of the 2025/26 season.

He joined the La Liga side on Thursday, August 7, as a free agent after finalising his move from Arsenal on June 30, 2025, following the expiration of his contract.

His move to the Yellow Submarine marks a return to Spain after leaving Atlético Madrid in 2020.

Less than 24 hours after completing his transfer, the Black Stars midfielder began training with his new teammates.

This development comes amid the Ghanaian international’s legal challenges, after facing rape charges just four days after his departure from Arsenal.

While concerns have been raised about Villarreal’s decision to sign Partey due to the pending case, the club issued a statement reiterating its respect for the player’s insistence on his innocence.

The club stated that while it awaits the final verdict, it remains a strong advocate against all forms of violence, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines human dignity.

“The club is aware that the player is currently involved in legal proceedings in England. The player firmly maintains his innocence and denies all charges against him. Villarreal CF respects the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence and will await the outcome of the judicial process, which will be responsible for clarifying the facts of the case.

“Due to the law in England in relation to ongoing proceedings, the club is unable to comment further. Villarreal wishes to reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any acts of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals.”

The club also praised Partey for his football abilities, describing him as a “complete midfielder with great stamina and exceptional physical attributes”.

They highlighted his successful spells with Arsenal, Atlético Madrid, and the Ghana national team, where he has earned over 50 caps.