Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is set to leave Spanish side Villarreal at the end of the 2025/26 season, sources have exclusively told Footy-Africa.
The 32-year-old joined the Yellow Submarine on a one-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year, after his five-year spell at Arsenal came to an end.
However, despite holding the option to remain at the club, sources indicate Partey is unlikely to activate the extension, barring any major change in circumstances, as he looks to take on a fresh challenge next season.
Since arriving at El Madrigal, the former Atletico Madrid enforcer has been a regular presence in Villarreal’s midfield, making seven La Liga starts and clocking 654 minutes in Spain’s top flight so far. He has also featured three times in the UEFA Champions League, adding experience and composure to Villarreal’s European campaign.
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Partey’s influence extends beyond club football. A key figure in the Black Stars setup, he has scored 16 goals in 56 international appearances and remains one of Ghana’s most dependable midfielders. The former Arsenal man is expected to be named in Otto Addo’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he is also tipped to serve as vice captain.
As the season progresses, attention will turn to where the highly experienced midfielder chooses to continue his career, with his pedigree and leadership still making him an attractive option at the highest level of the game.
