Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is preparing to find a new team this summer after Villarreal decided not to renew his contract. The La Liga side have chosen not to activate the 12-month extension clause included in his current deal. The Ghana international, who is currently facing trial in the United Kingdom over serious allegations, will now need to secure a new club ahead of the next season.

Partey’s time at Villarreal is coming to an end

Partey will officially become a free agent at the end of this month, as Villarreal have opted not to extend his stay for another year. According to reports from The Athletic and Sport, the Spanish club have declined the option to prolong his contract by 12 months.

The midfielder joined Villarreal on a one-year contract in the summer of 2025 following his departure from Arsenal. Over his single season in Spain, he made 32 appearances in all competitions and played a pivotal role in helping Villarreal secure a third-place finish in La Liga. However, the club have now decided to move forward without him in their plans for the upcoming campaign.

Legal challenges and club’s justification

This decision comes as Partey continues to face legal proceedings in the UK, where he has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The 31-year-old has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with his trial scheduled for June 2027. When Villarreal signed him, the move was met with widespread criticism. Club president Fernando Roig defended the transfer at the time, saying, “The player is involved in a legal process, he maintains his innocence, and denies the accusations. It is up to the British justice system to determine the truth. At present, Partey is as innocent as any of us. Respecting the presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle at Villarreal.”

World Cup complications

Beyond his club career, Partey is also facing major obstacles on the international front with Ghana. The national team is currently competing in the 2026 World Cup, but their vice-captain was left out of the squad for the opening match. He was recently refused entry to Canada, preventing him from travelling with his teammates to Toronto for their important clash against Panama.

An appeal to lift the travel ban was rejected on Tuesday, confirming his absence from the game. Reports have further suggested that some Villarreal players had previously voiced discomfort about his presence in the dressing room, adding to a difficult phase in the midfielder’s career.

What lies ahead for Partey?

Partey must now focus on finding a new club as a free agent while navigating his ongoing legal situation. His immediate attention remains on the World Cup with Ghana, though his travel restrictions will significantly affect his participation. Securing a contract with a top European club amid an impending trial could prove to be a major challenge in the months ahead.