Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted conditional bail after appearing before Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday, where he faces multiple counts of rape and sexual assault.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international has been charged with five counts of rape involving two women and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time with the Premier League side.
Partey’s court appearance came just days after his departure from Arsenal, following the expiration of his contract on June 30. He was seen in court wearing a black zip-up jumper, standing with his hands behind his back as the charges were formally read.
British authorities confirmed that the first report against Partey was made in February 2022. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Partey has maintained his innocence.
His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, said in an earlier statement that the player “denies all the charges against him” and “welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”
Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in a £45 million deal in October 2020. He went on to make 167 appearances for the Gunners, scoring nine goals, including four last season. On the international stage, he has earned 51 caps for Ghana.
Arsenal, responding to inquiries about the case, noted that Partey’s contract has ended and that the club is unable to comment due to ongoing legal proceedings.
In the wake of the charges, reports have linked the midfielder with a potential move to Spanish La Liga side Villarreal, though no official confirmation has been made.
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