Thomas Partey’s move to Villarreal has stirred less controversy than many anticipated, according to a spokesperson for the club’s supporters’ association.
Speaking to local media, the spokesperson said they had expected stronger opposition to the Ghanaian midfielder’s arrival, but the general reaction has been “mostly just indifference.”
“I thought more people would be against Partey. It’s been mostly just indifference. There was even some supportive applause for him,” the spokesperson noted in relation to his rape accusations.
The remarks suggest that many Spanish fans are choosing to focus on Partey’s footballing qualities rather than off-pitch narratives. “If he’s a good player, most Spanish fans don’t seem to really care,” the spokesperson added, drawing comparisons with the reception Mason Greenwood received when he joined Getafe last season.
Partey, who previously played for Atlético Madrid before moving to Arsenal, has returned to La Liga with Villarreal and will feature in their UEFA Champions League campaign.
