This is not the same Partey we signed

Being a manager is sometimes more than building tactics and watching players execute the assigments on the training pitch, along with building up their fitness levels. After all, sir Alex Ferguson, whose results are undeniable was rarely involed in any trainings, as per his former players. But his man management, with all wrong decisions along the way (David Beckham) was brilliant. In the modern days, coaches tend to speak more to their men, making sure they are as positive as possible, but also taking care of their sensibility. And, they tend not to openly criticize the players in public. After all, that is almost an unwritten rule since the first days of management. But, that doesn‘t mean that managers cannot talk about their players in a harsh manner. Just look at Villarreal‘s boss Marcelino.

Back in August, Villareall signed Thomas Partey, who became a free agent since Arsenal didn‘t renew his contract. His arrival was promoted heavily in Spain, but for all the wrong reasons. The Ghana international signed just days after he was granted conditional bail following an appearance in court on rape and sexual assault charges in London, which raised a huge debate among fans. And his career in Villarreal never took of really. Partey had started the match in Germany, against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League. The game was not important, as Villarreal were alraedy eliminated but was subbed at halftime already, when Leverkusen was already up 2-0.

Presumption of innocence: Villarreal reveal Partey as their new signing

This was his 21st appearances so far this season for Villarreal. He has completed the full 90 minutes just five times, while there has been criticism of his fitness levels and overall performances.

“There's a world of difference between the Thomas we knew at Arsenal and this one. A world of difference. It's very difficult to play at this pace in today's football. I think it's been six months, and that's enough time for this player to show us what he was or what he's showing now“ Marcelino said. Partey has already fallen below 17-year-old academy graduate Carlos Macia in the pecking order so a premature exit from Villarreal is now a realistic option for a former Gunner, especially after such harch words from the manager.

LA LIGA - MATCHDAY 22

Friday

Espanyol - Alaves 1-2 (1-1)

/Fernandez 15 - Blanco 27, Boye 71/

Saturday

16.00: (2.70) Oviedo (3.20) Girona (2.90)

18.15: (2.90) Osasuna (3.40) Villareal (2.55)

20.30: (5.25) Levante (4.25) Atl.Madrid (1.65)

23.00: (7.50) Elche (5.60) Barcelona (1.35)

Sunday

16.00: (1.27) Real Madrid (6.75) Rayo Vallecano (11.0)

18.15: (1.90) Betis (3.60) Valencia (4.50)

20.30: (2.85) Getafe (2.95) Celta (2.85)

23.00: (2.35) Ath.Bilbao (3.35) Sociedad (3.35)

Monday

23.00: (2.40) Mallorca (3.20) Sevilla (3.10)

***odds are subject to change***