Ex-Arsenal midfielder Partey joins Villarreal

The charges against Partey followed an investigation by detectives which started in February 2022.

Nearly 1,000 supporters have signed a petition set up by online content hub the Villarreal Report to protest Partey's signing.

Villarreal's statement added that it "wishes to clearly reiterate its strong commitment to respect and diversity and firmly condemns any act of violence in all its forms, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, xenophobia, or any behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals".

Partey, who will join up with his new club on Friday, is due to appear at the Old Bailey on 2 September.

His move follows Villarreal's 3-2 friendly win against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.