Former Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey denies Rape and Sexual Assault charges

Former Arsenal and current Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey has pleaded not guilty to multiple sexual offence charges during a hearing at Southwark Crown Court.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian international faces five counts of rape and one charge of sexual assault, relating to alleged incidents that occurred between 2021 and 2022, while he was playing in the Premier League.

The charges were brought against him just four days after his departure from Arsenal, following the expiry of his contract at the end of June.

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Partey, who now plays for Spanish side Villarreal, appeared in court where he confirmed his identity before entering not guilty pleas to each of the six charges. He was granted bail ahead of his trial, which is scheduled to begin on 2 November 2026 at the same court.

As part of his bail conditions, Partey is permitted to continue playing football but must notify police of any international travel at least 24 hours in advance. He is also prohibited from contacting any of the complainants.

The midfielder was already in England for Villarreal’s UEFA Champions League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, during which he appeared as a substitute. Villarreal lost the match 1-0.

The case continues.