Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey says he is delighted to be back in Spain after sealing a move to Villarreal but admits it will take time to fully adjust to the new dynamics of La Liga football.
Partey, who rose to prominence during his years at Atlético Madrid, left Spain in 2020 to complete a record transfer to Arsenal in the Premier League. After five seasons in England, where the game is faster and more physical, the 31-year-old has returned to familiar ground, this time donning the yellow of Villarreal.
The experienced midfielder made his first start for the Yellow Submarines last Saturday against his former club Atlético Madrid, marking a significant step in his reintegration.
“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.
He, however, acknowledged that adapting to Villarreal’s system and the evolving style of Spanish football will require patience.
“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.
Partey has already travelled with the squad to London ahead of Villarreal’s UEFA Champions League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday.
