Villarreal manager Marcelino has expressed frustration with Thomas Partey after the team suffered a heavy defeat in Germany, leaving them eliminated from the Champions League before their final group-stage match.
Partey, who started the game alongside Tajon Buchanan, was substituted at halftime after Bayer Leverkusen took a 2-0 lead. Following the match, Marcelino drew a stark comparison between Partey’s current performances and his time at Arsenal, questioning his impact and commitment since joining Villarreal.
“There is a world of difference between the Thomas we knew at Arsenal and this one. A world of difference,” Marcelino said. “It’s very difficult to play at this pace in today’s football. Six months is enough time for a player to show what he is capable of.”
The coach added, “We brought him here for his experience and stability. Instead, we are seeing a player who is mentally elsewhere. I am tired of making excuses. I am tired of press conferences being about off-field issues rather than the game.”
Partey, who joined Villarreal on a free transfer over the summer, has appeared in 21 matches this season, but only five of those were full 90-minute games. Villarreal currently sit second to last in their Champions League group, having earned just one point from eight games