Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been released on conditional bail after being formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. He faces allegations involving two women for the rape charges and a third woman in relation to the sexual assault, with the alleged incidents said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022 while he was playing for Arsenal.
The charges come just four days after Partey’s contract with the north London club officially ended in late June. He is next scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on 2 September.
During his court appearance, Partey wore a black zip-neck jumper and black trousers, carrying a navy blazer. He spoke only to confirm his name and acknowledge he understood the terms of his bail.
As part of his bail conditions, he is prohibited from contacting the three women involved and must inform authorities of any international travel or permanent change of address.
The case stems from a police investigation that began in February 2022 following a rape allegation. Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, has stated that he “denies all the charges against him” and is looking forward to “finally clearing his name.”
Meanwhile, reports suggest Partey is preparing to join Spanish club Villarreal on a one-year deal, with the option of extending for another year.
-Deeprows Sports
