Villarreal manager Marcelino has insisted that Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is “mentally prepared” to face Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday — just a day before the player’s scheduled court appearance in London.

Partey, who denies multiple rape and sexual assault allegations, returns to north London to face his former rivals before attending a plea hearing at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old was charged in July with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, linked to alleged incidents between April 2021 and June 2022 during his time at Arsenal. He has been granted conditional bail, requiring him to notify police of international travel and barring any contact with the complainants.

Partey joined Villarreal on a free transfer in August and has featured in all four of the club’s La Liga fixtures this season.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Marcelino praised the midfielder’s focus and professionalism.

“He is with the group. I’m totally convinced that he is mentally prepared, technically prepared, to play the game tomorrow night. For sure, he’ll be ready,” Marcelino said.

The Villarreal boss added:

“We are really happy that Thomas is with us for his football capacity and ability, and his presence as a human. He’s a great player with lots of experience… I think he will get back to his top level which we all know that he’s got and I’m very happy he’s with us in the team.”

Despite his ongoing legal battle, Partey is expected to start at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as Villarreal look to begin their European campaign strongly. He will then return to court in London on Wednesday for his plea hearing.