Thomas Partey Granted Bail Over Rape and Sexual Assault Charges

Former Arsenal and Ghana international midfielder, Thomas Partey, has been granted conditional bail after appearing before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to face multiple rape and sexual assault charges.

Partey, 32, has been charged with five counts of rape involving two women, as well as an additional charge of sexual assault against a third woman. The alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022, during his time as a player for Arsenal Football Club.

The footballer stood in the dock with his arms behind his back, dressed in a black zip-neck jumper, as the charges were formally read out in court. British police confirmed that they first received a report of rape in February 2022.

The charges come just days after Partey’s contract with Arsenal expired on June 30. He was officially charged four days later.

Partey’s legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, stated: “He denies all the charges against him,” adding that the midfielder welcomed “the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in October 2020 in a £45 million (\$60 million) deal. He played 52 times for the Gunners last season, scoring four goals. Over his Arsenal career, he made a total of 167 appearances and scored nine goals.

He has also earned 51 caps for the Ghana national team.

A spokesperson for Arsenal commented: “The player’s contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case.”

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced linking Partey with a potential move to Spanish side Villarreal, though no official confirmation has been made.

The case is expected to continue as legal proceedings unfold in the coming months.

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