Despite his team’s first loss of the season, Thomas Partey stated his happiness about rejoining Atletico Madrid with Villarreal.
“I feel good. I’m happy to be playing, and I’m happy with the team, with the coaches and everything. I’m happy to be back here playing again in Wanda, and I think it’s been a long time, and I’m happy”, he said.
Following Atletico Madrid’s 2-0 La Liga victory over Villarreal on September 13, 2025, at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium—fondly referred to as Wanda Metropolitano—Partey made these remarks.
Atletico Madrid moved up to ninth place in the rankings with their first La Liga victory of the season.
Nico Gonzalez doubled the lead with a strong header in the 52nd minute, his first goal for the team, while Pablo Barrios scored early in the 9th minute, taking advantage of a defensive blunder by Villarreal.
Alberto Moleiro’s near misses and Nicolas Pepe’s incredible free kick that hit the crossbar were two of Villarreal’s standout chances.
During his fruitful career with Atletico Madrid, which spanned from 2013 to 2020, Partey made 188 appearances under Diego Simeone.
He joined Arsenal in 2020 for £45 million, and he has been performing well ever since. When his contract with Atletico Madrid expires in June 2025, there are reports that he may return to the Spanish team.
