Is Marcelino Justified in His Comments About Thomas Partey?
Ghana international Thomas Partey has come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks, with Villarreal’s coaching staff led by Marcelino reportedly unconvinced by his performances since joining the club in the summer.
Once regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football during his spells at Atlético Madrid and Arsenal, Partey has struggled to replicate that level in the yellow colours of the Yellow Submarines. His influence has been limited, and the sharpness that once defined his game appears to have faded.
Villarreal head coach Marcelino did not mince his words when assessing the midfielder’s output:
“I think there’s a world of difference between the Thomas we knew at Arsenal and this one. A world of difference.”
So far, Partey has completed just five full games since his arrival. The majority of his appearances have come from the bench, though injury has played its role but Marcelino believes the 33-year-old has lost a significant amount of pace, an attribute that is increasingly non-negotiable in modern football.
“It’s very difficult to play at this pace in today’s football.
Recent reports suggest Villarreal are prepared to part ways with the Ghanaian when his contract expires in June, a clear indication that the club is already planning beyond him.
I think it’s been six months now, and that’s enough time for this player to show us what he was capable of, or what he’s showing us now,” the coach added.
Beyond the tactical and physical concerns, questions have also been raised about whether Partey’s off-field situation could be affecting his performances.
The midfielder is currently standing trial in England over allegations of rape involving different women.
While the legal process is ongoing and the allegations remain unproven, it is difficult to ignore the potential mental and psychological strain such a situation could impose on any player.
Footballers need mental clarity and emotional freedom to perform at the highest level, and there is little doubt that ongoing legal issues can take a toll. In Partey’s case, this may be contributing to the drastic dip in form witnessed this season.
At his best—fit, confident, and mentally free—Partey remains a handful for any midfield opponent. His abilities on the ball are exceptional. His calmness in possession, capacity to dictate the tempo of games, and knack for breaking up opposition attacks are qualities only a few midfielders in today’s game truly possess.
Ghana will be counting heavily on their vice-captain ahead of the World Cup in June. For the Black Stars to stand a chance, Partey must rediscover his sharpness and stability both physically and mentally.
The coming months will be crucial for his future at club level as well. If Partey wants to earn more minutes, he will have to rediscover the form he showed at Arsenal and prove capable of displacing competition from the likes of Pape Gueye, Dani Parejo, and Santi Comesaña.
For now, Marcelino’s comments may sound harsh but given the evidence on the pitch, they raise uncomfortable yet legitimate questions about where Thomas Partey truly stands in this phase of his career.