Thomas Partey has stated that his return to Spanish football feels refreshing, though he admits he must patiently grow into Villarreal’s setup after years away in the Premier League.
The Ghana international, who built his reputation at Atlético Madrid before moving to Arsenal in 2020, is back in La Liga after five seasons in England. At 31, Partey has swapped London’s intensity for Villarreal’s yellow, hoping to bring experience and stability to the midfield.
Last weekend, he made his full debut in familiar surroundings, against Atlético at the Wanda Metropolitan, a moment he described with pure relief.
“I feel good. I am happy to be playing. I am happy with the team, with the coaches, with everything, and I am happy with my teammates. I feel happy to be back here playing again at Wanda. It’s been a long time, and I am happy,” Partey told Sporty TV.
Partey laments missed opportunities as Villarreal fall to Atletico Madrid
But he recognises that the Spanish league, and Villarreal in particular, will demand a different rhythm compared to the speed and physicality of the Premier League.
“I am now getting back. It is a different team and the style of play is different, and I think with time I will get used to it and I will be able to enjoy,” he added.
For now, Villarreal fans can expect to see a seasoned midfielder steadily re-finding his stride in a league where he first made his name.
